Missouri and other states have right-of-way laws in place to help keep traffic moving safely and efficiently. Understanding these laws is key to operating your vehicle safely and responsibly. Whether you are a vehicle driver, pedestrian, or bicyclist, it is essential to understand the right-of-way laws in Missouri so that you can ensure you are following them correctly.
Keep reading below to learn all the details about the Missouri right-of-way laws.
What Are Right-of-Way Laws?
Right-of-way laws specify which driver is legally allowed to proceed first in certain traffic situations. For instance, what happens when two vehicles arrive at a four-way stop? The right-of-way laws specify what to do in these types of situations.
Right-of-way laws apply to many types of traffic situations, including those involving vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists. Following these laws can help keep everyone on the road safe and avoid potential car accidents.
Missouri Right-of-Way Rules for Vehicle Drivers
Missouri law specifies who has the right of way in many types of traffic situations.
Some common situations you may encounter on the road include:
- Stop signs: The driver who arrives first has the right of way. If two vehicles arrive at the same time, the vehicle on the right has the right of way to proceed first.
- Left turns: Oncoming traffic has the right-of-way, and drivers turning left must yield to oncoming traffic until it is clear.
- Yield signs: A yield sign may specify who has the right-of-way at certain intersections. The driver approaching the yield sign must slow or stop so that they can yield the right-of-way to vehicles already in the intersection or those approaching closely.
- Driveways, alleys, and private roads: A driver attempting to enter the road from a driveway or alley must yield to vehicles already on the road.
Failure to follow these right-of-way laws can result in serious accidents. Additionally, failure to follow the rules may result in a traffic citation, accompanied by fines and points on your license.
Right-of-Way Rules When Pedestrians or Bicyclists Are Involved
Not only does Missouri have rules in place for how vehicles should yield the right-of-way to other vehicles, but special rules may apply when pedestrians or bicyclists are involved. Pedestrian accidents and bicycle accidents can be catastrophic, so following these rules is extremely important.
Right-of-way rules when pedestrians and bicyclists are involved include:
- Drivers should yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks
- Pedestrians should not suddenly leave the curb when a vehicle is so close that it cannot safely stop
- Bicyclists should follow the same right-of-way rules as vehicles
- Vehicle drivers must leave a “safe distance” when passing bicycles
If you have been hurt because a driver failed to follow these right-of-way laws, you can seek compensation for your injuries. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you pursue a claim.
Common Accidents Resulting From Failing to Yield the Right-of-Way
When a driver fails to yield the right-of-way, an accident may occur.
Some common types of accidents include:
- Intersection collisions
- Pedestrian accidents
- Bicycle accidents
- Bus accidents
- Left-turn crashes
- Truck accidents
Failure to yield the right-of-way can have serious consequences. Make sure you are familiar with these rules and always stay alert and ready to yield the right-of-way when necessary.
What to Do After a Right-of-Way Accident in Missouri
After an accident, you should always get medical treatment for your injuries right away. Please notify the police so that they can respond to the scene, conduct an initial investigation, and create an accident report.
If possible, collect as much evidence from the scene as you can. This includes taking photos of the vehicles and the accident scene. Also, gather contact information from any witnesses. Let your insurance company know about the accident, but do not give a statement to the other driver’s insurance company without getting help from an experienced lawyer.
Contact the St. Louis Car Accident Lawyers at Eason Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
For more information, please contact Eason Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with a car accident lawyer in St. Louis, MO, today. We have two convenient locations in Missouri, including St. Louis and Richmond Heights.
We proudly serve St. Louis County and its surrounding areas.
Eason Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – St. Louis Office
10 S Broadway #560
St. Louis, MO 63102
(314) 932-1066
Eason Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Richmond Heights Office
1034 S Brentwood Blvd Penthouse 1-C
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
(314) 463-4173
