According to statistics, failing to yield to the right of way is the second leading cause of accidents resulting in injuries and fatal accidents in the state of Florida. In fact, the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles 2010 Florida Traffic Crash Statistics Report stated that the failure to yield to the right of way was a contributing factor in numerous serious accidents in the state.
Here you can learn more about the right of way laws in Florida.
Who Has the Legal Right of Way While on the Road?
According to the Driver’s Handbook, the law in Florida does not provide specific vehicle the right of way. The law does state, however, who has to give up or yield the right of way.
When Are You Legally Required to Yield the Right of Way?
- It is required that you yield the right of way to any and all pedestrians and traffic at stop signs.
- If there are two vehicles that get to a four way stop simultaneously, the driver on the left is required to yield the right of way to the driver who is on the right.
- It is required that you yield the right of way at any roundabout intersection to vehicles that are currently circulating in the roundabout.
- It is required to yield the right of way at any T-intersection to a vehicle that is traveling on a through road.
- If you are at an intersection with no yield, stop or street signs, which is called an “open intersection, you must yield to:
- Any vehicle that got to the intersection before you did
- Any vehicle that is on a highway when you are entering from a secondary road
- Any vehicle when you are entering a road that is paved from a road that is unpaved
What Happens if Someone Fails to Yield the Right of Way?
If there is someone who does not yield the right of way to you (even when it is required) you have to yield or stop for safety reasons. It is necessary that you do whatever you can to avoid being involved in an accident.
Hiring an Attorney for Help with Right of Way Accidents
If you are involved in a right of way accident, the best thing you can do is hire a car accident attorney in Florida. They can review your situation and case and determine if you have the ability to try and receive monetary compensation for the injuries you suffered due to someone else’s negligence.
If you do need legal help, contact our personal injury law attorneys at Fetterman & Associates by calling 561-845-2510 for more information. We can help ensure you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Additional Reading:
What is a Parent’s Legal Liability for Car Accidents that Involve their Child?