Lesson 1 · Right of way basics
What does a yield sign mean?
Short answer
Slow down and let traffic on the other road and people crossing go first. Stop if you need to, and go only when there is a safe gap.
Watch it play out
How to do it
- Slow down as you approach the sign.
- Look both ways for cars, cyclists and people.
- Stop at the line if anyone is close enough to be a danger.
- Go when there is a gap big enough that no one has to brake for you.
Why the rule works this way
Yield signs go where a full stop is not always needed, but the other road has priority. They keep traffic moving while still protecting the main road.
Common mistakes
- Treating it like a green light. You must be ready to stop.
- Pulling out and forcing the other car to brake. If they had to slow down, you did not yield.
Questions people ask
Do I have to stop at a yield sign?
Only if traffic or people are coming. If the way is clear, you may go without stopping after you slow down and look.