Right-of-Way Laws in Florida

Bill Allen | May 10, 2023 | Florida Law

Florida’s right-of-way laws are meant to keep drivers and their loved ones safe as they travel throughout the state. In Florida, no one has the right of way. That’s because state law only mentions who is required to yield the right of way. Consequently, this means everyone on the road must conduct themselves in a manner that avoids car accidents.

This post will explore how Florida’s right-of-way laws work in different places throughout the state. By learning how to manage your vehicle safely and responsibly, no matter what the posted signage indicates, you’ll be able to make Florida’s roads much safer for anyone traveling on them.

The Florida Uniform Traffic Control Law

The Florida Uniform Traffic Control Law governs all traffic regulations throughout the state. Interestingly, it does not mention who has the right of way in specific situations. It is written this way to place the onus on all occupants of the roads and sidewalks to do everything possible to prevent and avoid accidents.

The Florida Uniform Traffic Control Law applies to all of the following:

A popular example of the law’s application concerns a four-way stop. When stopping at a four-way stop, the first car at the stop gets to go first, while every other car needs to yield the right of way. Under Florida law, the typical rules would not apply if something went wrong and one of the drivers needed to take action to avoid a crash.

Here are some common scenarios where the right of way is important.

Stop Signs

When you reach a stop sign, you must yield to all traffic and pedestrians. At a four-way stop, the first vehicle to arrive should go first. However, if two cars arrive simultaneously, the driver on the left must yield to the driver on the right.

Roundabouts

Roundabouts are excellent additions to almost any city. They help with congestion by improving the flow of traffic and reducing the chances of crashes. They also streamline your commute by eliminating the need for as many traffic lights.

Most roundabouts require vehicles to continue moving through them at a slow speed. Unlike a traffic intersection, roundabouts do not require you to stop or idle your vehicle. Instead, they flow traffic through in a counterclockwise direction. When approaching a roundabout, drivers must yield to the traffic currently in circulation.

Additionally, some roundabouts have specific rules. Therefore, it is important for drivers to read and obey all posted signage. Doing so is not just a courtesy — it’s the law.

Open Intersections

Open intersections do not have traffic control signals or signage. Consequently, drivers must be extra cautious concerning their surroundings.

Drivers entering an open intersection must yield the right of way if any of the following is true:

The driver is entering a state highway from another road
The driver is attempting a left turn while a vehicle is approaching them
There is already a vehicle in the intersection
The driver is turning off an unpaved road onto a paved road

Much like four-way stop signs, if two cars arrive at an open intersection simultaneously, the driver on the left must yield to the driver on the right.

Now that you know more about the nuances of Florida’s right-of-way laws, including how to determine the right-of-way in several different scenarios and contexts, you’re ready to conduct yourself safely and responsibly by exercising caution and care for your fellow motorists and pedestrians.

Contact Our Gainesville Car Accident Law Firm in North Central Florida

If you need legal assistance, contact the Gainesville car accident lawyers at Allen Law Firm at your nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.

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Gainesville, FL 32608
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