Drivers in Jacksonville may encounter a number of different traffic scenarios. Knowing the right-of-way laws can prevent you from receiving a citation, and it can also help you avoid a car accident. Determining who has the right-of-way depends on the type of intersection and whether or not traffic signals are present.
Keep reading below to learn everything you need to know about Florida’s right-of-way laws.
Florida’s Right-of-Way Laws Vary by Situation
Florida’s traffic laws specify exactly how to handle the right-of-way at all types of intersections and traffic scenarios. Interestingly enough, drivers in Florida do not “have” the right-of-way. Instead, the law specifies who must yield the right-of-way in each scenario.
Four-Way Stops
At a four-way stop, the first vehicle to arrive at the intersection has the right-of-way. When two vehicles arrive at the same time, the vehicle on the left should yield the right-of-way to the vehicle on the right. Both vehicles must come to a complete stop.
If two vehicles approach each other at the same time, the vehicle turning left should yield to the vehicle proceeding straight.
Left Turns
Vehicles turning left should yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic. Unless governed by a traffic signal, vehicles should only turn left when there is no oncoming traffic. The left-turning vehicle may proceed when traffic is clear, and it is safe to do so.
Roundabouts
Roundabouts often cause a lot of confusion with local drivers. When entering a roundabout, you should always yield the right-of-way to vehicles already in the roundabout. If there are multiple lanes in the roundabout, you should choose the appropriate lane based on where you need to exit the roundabout.
Uncontrolled Intersections
Drivers approaching an intersection not controlled by stop signs or traffic signals should yield the right-of-way to vehicles already in the intersection. Drivers entering a paved road from an unpaved road must yield the right-of-way to drivers on the main road.
Pedestrian Crosswalks
Drivers must yield to pedestrians in a marked crosswalk. Pedestrian accidents are common, especially at intersections. Drivers should be especially cautious when turning right at intersections and at those without a traffic signal.
Emergency Vehicles
All vehicles must yield the right-of-way to emergency vehicles with their lights and sirens activated. Drivers should slow down and pull to the right side of the road when they can safely do so. This allows the emergency vehicle to pass by safely.
Potential Penalties for Right-of-Way Violations
Violations of the right-of-way laws in Florida are considered non-criminal traffic infractions.
These infractions are actually quite serious, and they may result in penalties of:
- Failure-to-yield citations
- Fines
- Points on your driver’s license
- Possible driving or traffic school
- Increased insurance premiums
Not only might you face the possible consequences above, but you could also face liability if your failure to yield results in a car accident. At-fault drivers may face civil penalties after an accident, especially if that accident results in serious injuries.
Contact a Jacksonville Car Accident Lawyer at Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Knowing the right-of-way laws can help you become a safer driver and avoid accidents in Jacksonville. It is critical that all Florida drivers know these rules, and that pedestrians and cyclists also understand them. Even when you know the law, accidents cannot always be avoided.
For more information, please contact the Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra car accident law firm, Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers, at the nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
We serve Duval County, St. Johns County, and the surrounding areas:
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Jacksonville
9471 Baymeadows Rd #105,
Jacksonville, FL 32256
(904) 396-1100
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Downtown Jacksonville
121 W Forsyth St Suite 1000,
Jacksonville, FL 32202
(904) 822-4225
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Ponte Vedra
480 Town Plaza Ave #130,
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081
(904) 675-1167