Matthew Mincone | July 3, 2025 | Car Accident
Right-of-way laws explain when drivers must yield to other road users, including pedestrians. However, the first rule is always to take whatever steps you can to prevent an accident, even if you have the right of way.
Although most people have a fair grasp of right-of-way laws in Florida, some situations can be confusing. Referring to the law can help you understand what other road users will expect from you. This article explains and links to Florida right-of-way laws for easy reference.
Vehicles Entering Intersections
Right-of-way rules for vehicles entering intersections are found in Florida Statute 316.121.
In summary, it specifies that:
- Vehicles that have already entered an intersection have the right of way.
- Vehicles on the left yield to vehicles on the right.
- When approaching an intersection from an unpaved road without traffic signs or signals, you must yield to vehicles on the paved road.
We advise motorists to be alert whenever they notice vehicles approaching an intersection on the road they are traveling. Defensive driving can prevent accidents.
Vehicles Entering Stop or Yield Intersections
Unless an officer signals otherwise, come to a dead stop at the stop line. If there is none, stop before a crosswalk or before the road enters the intersection. Yield to any approaching traffic or pedestrians crossing the road.
At four-way stops, the first vehicle to stop has the right of way. If two vehicles arrive at the intersection simultaneously, the driver on the left yields to the vehicle on the right.
Slow down to a speed that allows for a quick stop when approaching a yield sign. If it is not safe to cross the intersection, stop. Under Florida law, if you fail to stop and collide with a vehicle or a pedestrian, you will likely be regarded as the at-fault driver.
Intersections With Inoperative Traffic Lights
Always stop when you reach an intersection with inoperative traffic lights, even if some of the lights are working, but the ones on your side of the intersection are not. Proceed when it is safe to do so.
In practice, this often means treating broken traffic lights as four-way stops when all lights are inoperative. It is safest to follow the rule and behave as you would at a regular stop sign until the intersection is clear or you are sure other cars will let you pass.
Right of Way for Emergency Vehicles
People driving emergency vehicles must take care not to cause accidents, but they have the right of way when en route to an emergency. They must obey standard rules of the road unless their sirens or lights are on.
When they see an emergency vehicle using its lights or siren, the drivers of other vehicles must yield right of way, getting as close to the edge of a road as they safely can and stopping so that emergency vehicles can pass. Pedestrians should also yield the right-of-way.
Construction Workers and Public Transit Vehicles
You should get ample warning of roadworks ahead. It is wise to slow down because Florida’s right-of-way law requires you to yield the right-of-way to road construction workers and vehicles. Bus drivers must drive carefully, but if they are indicating that they are about to enter a lane after pulling over to load or disembark passengers, they have the right-of-way.
Failure to Obey Right-of-Way Laws in Florida
Right-of-way laws help keep road users safe, and drivers who break these laws are guilty of violations. Apart from being fined if they are caught, they are likely to be seen as the at-fault driver in car accidents.
Of course, real-life situations can be complex. For example, a driver may have no other option but to violate a right-of-way rule when trying to avoid a serious accident. If a collision still occurs, it is likely that some degree of contributory fault will be attributed to them.
Depending on the circumstances, it is possible that they will still be eligible to claim damages, but they may need a good lawyer to make this possible.
Contact the Tampa Car Accident Lawyers at Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
If you have been injured by someone else’s negligence in Tampa, FL, we’re here to help. Contact our skilled car accident lawyers at Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation.
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About The Author
Attorney Matthew Mincone is the founder of Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers. He earned his law degree while attending night programs in New York and is licensed to practice in Florida. With over 15 years of legal experience, Matthew focuses on personal injury cases, including motor vehicle accidents involving cars, commercial trucks, and motorcycles. His commitment to personally handling each case ensures clients receive dedicated representation. Click here to view some of the remarkable case results that Matthew has successfully achieved.
Location: Tampa, FL