Understanding The Right of Ways Laws of Ontario

Bringing order into traffic requires rules and regulations which serve to protect motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians from collision and resulting injuries. One of the regulations are enforced through right of way laws. However, while these are meant to protect all of us, there are still many motorists who either do not know about these laws, or simply do not care to follow them. As a result, they cause collisions with devastating consequences that could have easily been prevented if only they had yielded the right of way.

If you have fallen victim to an accident caused by someone else’s failure to obey right of way laws, you will be in a position in which you can file a claim for compensation or lawsuit against the offending party. In order to ensure maximum compensation for your losses, it is best to hire an injury lawyer in Kitchener, as soon as possible after the accident has taken place.

The Different Types of Intersections

Regardless of whether there are signs or no signs at an intersection, it is always important to be careful and be aware of the right of way rules applicable to the situation. As a motor vehicle driver, you will need to not just be aware of other motorists, but also of cyclists and pedestrians who may hold the right of way.

If you are approaching an intersection without signs, it is the one who arrives first that will hold the right of way. If you and another driver approach simultaneously, then it is the vehicles coming from the right to whom you will need to yield. When it comes to four way stops, you can expect the same rules that apply to an intersection without signs. The first to arrive gets to go first, and if two arrive simultaneously, the one coming from the right holds the right of way. Should a yield sign be placed at the intersection, then you will need to yield the right of way to anyone approaching the intersection. So slow down as you approach and come to a full stop if necessary. Once all traffic has passed, you can keep going.

If your plan is to turn left at an intersection, then you will be required to wait for oncoming traffic to pass, while also yielding the right of way to any pedestrians who may be crossing the road along the way. Should you wish to turn right, then you will only need to yield the right of way to cyclists and pedestrians crossing your path and driving alongside you.

If you are exiting a private roadway, then you will need to yield to any and all vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians who are navigating the sidewalk, main road, or cycling lane outside the property.

Different Types of Pedestrian Crossings

Pedestrian crossings also come with their own set of rules. Since pedestrians are arguably the most vulnerable party, it is vital that all motorists memorize and fully understand Ontario’s pedestrian laws, which cover all types of crosswalks and crossovers.