YOUR TEXAS DRIVING RESOURCE
Right-of-way: making room for a safe decision
Learn how yielding works at turns and stop signs, then test your reasoning in three practical scenarios.
Start with the control, then the conflict
Identify the signal or sign controlling your movement before deciding who goes. Then locate every path your vehicle will cross. A completed stop is only the first part of a stop-sign task: you must also yield to traffic already in the intersection or approaching closely enough to be an immediate hazard.
Do not reduce every intersection to “the person on the right goes.” Different controls and roadway arrangements change the rule. If a view is blocked, you lack information; another driver waving is not a substitute for checking the whole path.
A left turn crosses another path
For an unprotected left turn, wait for oncoming traffic that is in the intersection or close enough to create an immediate hazard. Include the time your vehicle needs to complete the turn. Do not pressure an approaching driver to brake so you can fit through.
Try the scenarios
Scenario 1
You are turning left across oncoming traffic. A vehicle is close enough that your turn would force it to brake. What should you do?
Choose your action and explain why before revealing the answer.
Reveal decision and explanation
Wait for a safe gap. A left turn must yield to opposing traffic that presents an immediate hazard. A signal announces your intention; it does not give priority.
Scenario 2
You stopped at a stop sign. A truck blocks your view of cross traffic. Is the completed stop enough to go?
Choose your action and explain why before revealing the answer.
Reveal decision and explanation
No. A full stop and a safe entry are separate tasks. Wait until you can establish a clear view and a safe gap without entering a conflict. Never use another driver’s wave as proof that every lane is clear.
Scenario 3
You expected another vehicle to yield, but it continues into your path. Should you insist on going?
Choose your action and explain why before revealing the answer.
Reveal decision and explanation
No. Avoid the collision. Slow or stop safely as the situation requires. The rule helps predict behavior; it cannot guarantee what another person will do.
Practice the explanation while parked
Ask the learner to name the control, the conflicting path and the condition that would make them wait. “I stopped” does not answer whether it is safe to enter. “They should yield” does not answer how to avoid a collision if they fail to do so.
During supervised driving, give route directions early and avoid rapid questions at the intersection. Discuss uncertain decisions after stopping safely. Repeat a quiet route until the learner notices the relevant information without urgent reminders. Move to a more complex intersection only when observation and vehicle control remain steady.
Official rule reference
Texas Transportation Code §§545.151–545.153 cover intersection entry, left turns and stop/yield intersections. These examples are deliberately simplified; obey the actual controls and account for people and hazards not shown.