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When driving in Texas, there are right of way laws that drivers must abide by to keep themselves and others on the road safe. Failing to observe them can result in penalties, or worse, a car accident.
Intersections
- Motor vehicles driving down unpaved roads must yield the right-of-way when they come across an intersection with a paved road.
- At an uncontrolled intersection, ones that don’t have a traffic control signal or stop/yield signs, you must yield to those who are already at the intersection and proceed cautiously.
- For left-hand turns at an intersection, you must give the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing the street, as well as vehicles traveling in the opposite lane. For right turns, you must also yield to any pedestrian and cars entering the lane you are turning into.
- When traveling down a private road, lane, or alley that opens up to an intersection, you must give the right-of-way to any oncoming traffic.
- At railroad crossings, you must stop at the indicated area to give trains the right-of-way. Stopping too close to the tracks can cause devastating consequences if an accident occurs and you are struck by a moving train.
Pedestrians
- Drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians, even if they cross the road illegally, such as failing to use a marked crosswalk.
- Pedestrians are required to yield to vehicles that have a green light at an intersection.
- Pedestrians who are blind always have the right-of-way.
Pedestrians lack the same amount of protection as a vehicle gives its passengers. As a result, accidents often cause severe injuries or even deaths. As a general rule of thumb, Texas drivers should always be extra cautious and give pedestrians the right-of-way.
Emergency Vehicles
Emergency vehicles, such as ambulances, fire trucks, police vehicles, etc., that have their sirens and flashing lights on have the right-of-way. You must move aside or even pull over if you have to let these vehicles pass. If you are in an intersection at the time, proceed through it, then pull over to the side.
Penalties for Failing to Yield the Right of Way in Texas
Drivers who fail to comply with Texas right-of-way laws can be subject to a fine between $50 to $200 and two points on their license. If a violation of a right-of-way law leads to an injury, the driver may receive three points on their license and a fine of up to $2,000. A larger fine of up to $4,000 may be issued if someone is seriously injured.
Get Legal Help
Understanding who should have legally had the right-of-way can help you better define who is at fault when an accident occurs. If you can prove that another driver caused the accident by violating a right-of-way law, you will have a strong claim for compensation.
If you have been injured in an accident in Texas, an experienced Houston Car Accident Lawyer at Milano Legal Group can help. We will identify the liable parties and ensure you recover maximum compensation for your claim. Call (713) 489-4270 or reach us online today.
