Lesson 1 · Right of way basics
Who goes first when two cars stop at the same time?
Short answer
The car on the right goes first. Yield to the driver on your right when you both stop at the same moment.
Watch it play out
How to do it
- Stop fully.
- If another car stopped at the same moment, look to your right.
- If that car is on your right, let it go first.
- If you are the one on the right, go, but watch that the other driver actually waits.
Why the rule works this way
A simple tiebreaker means drivers do not have to negotiate. Picking the car on the right is the rule in every state handbook.
Common mistakes
- Assuming the bigger road or faster car wins. Only position matters in a tie.
- Both drivers waving each other on. Follow the rule and go if it is your turn.
Questions people ask
What about cars facing each other?
If two cars across from each other stop together, they can usually both go. If one is turning left, the car going straight goes first.