Right-Of-Way Laws in South Carolina
Each state has its version of road safety laws that are crucial to understanding responsible driving. For example, the right-of-way laws in South Carolina require knowing who to yield to at an intersection or crosswalk, which can help prevent accidents.
Right-of-way, essentially, is a legal concept that regulates the flow of traffic by giving priority to a particular driver to avoid collisions. If you have the right of way, you can proceed without stopping because other vehicles should stop or yield for you.
The most common interaction with the right-of-way law is at intersections or when two lanes of traffic merge into a single lane. The right of way is determined in various ways in different states; in some cases, it could be explicit or implied. Contact our seasoned personal injury attorneys today to learn more about these rules and regulations.
Understanding State Right-Of-Way Laws
It is essential to familiarize yourself with South Carolina’s right-of-way laws because they may not be explicitly communicated. However, you are expected to know them before you start driving. If you are unaware of these laws and proceed to drive without building an understanding, you may be liable for an auto accident.
South Carolina Code of Laws defines right-of-way as the priority given to one vehicle or pedestrian to go first, based on their direction, speed, and proximity to others. If there is a risk of collision, one party must let the other go first to avoid an accident.
Examples of Right-Of-Way Regulations
Some examples of how right-of-way laws apply in South Carolina include the following:
- Stop signs: At stop signs, a vehicle that comes to a complete stop first has right-of-way regardless of the direction they are heading in
- Yield signs: At yield signs, the vehicle primarily in the intersection has the right-of-way, and the yielding vehicle must slow down or stop completely to avoid an accident.
- No signs: The vehicle on the right has the right of way
- Crosswalks: Drivers must yield to pedestrians even if there is no traffic sign. However, pedestrians do not have the right of way at a green traffic light or if there are signs to direct pedestrians to walk or stop.
Learn More About South Carolina’s Right-Of-Way Laws Today
Understanding road safety laws to prevent accidents or harmful injuries is important. But if you find yourself in a situation where you may need to consult a lawyer about injury or accident cases, please call Whetstone Perkins & Fulda.
Our law firm handles claims statewide, so do not hesitate to reach out today.
