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It can be difficult for some Pennsylvania drivers to safely navigate busy intersections, especially when there are only stop signs or if another motorist is attempting to make a right-hand turn. To help prevent accidents and make the roads safer, right-of-way laws provide the ground rules for who is allowed to go first in specific cases. Failing to follow right-of-way laws can result in serious car accidents.

For example, controlled stops, which are intersections that do not have any traffic lights, are where the right-of-way laws come into play. The vehicle that comes to a stop first gets the right of way regardless of whether it is going straight or making a turn. If two or more vehicles arrive at the stop at the same time, the vehicle that is on the right receives the right-of-way.

Right-of-way laws also cover crosswalks and pedestrians. In Pennsylvania, for example, pedestrians always have the right of way if they are walking in a crosswalk, especially if there are no control signals. In some other states, like Georgia, pedestrians may only have the right of way if they are halfway across the walkway at marked intersections.

When other drivers fail to follow right-of-way laws or any other traffic laws, they are at risk for causing serious car accidents. Crash victims could face expensive medical bills in addition to being unable to work for a period of time. A personal injury attorney may use evidence from the crash to provide proof that the other driver was liable and that he or she is responsible for paying damages. If negotiations between the attorney and the insurance company do not result in a settlement, the attorney may take the case to court.