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3-Way Stop Sign: Rules, Right-of-Way, and How to Navigate Safely
Regulatory Signs
A 3-way stop sign regulates traffic at T-intersections where three roads meet. All drivers must come to a complete stop, but right-of-way rules differ slightly from 4-way stops.
How Does a 3-Way Stop Work?
At a 3-way stop, drivers follow these steps:
- Stop Completely:
- Halt at the white line or before entering the intersection.
- Rolling stops are illegal and risk fines.
- Identify Right-of-Way:
- First to stop = first to go.
- If two cars stop simultaneously, yield to the driver on your right.
- Proceed with Caution:
- Check for pedestrians and cyclists before moving.
Key Difference from 4-Way Stops:
- Only three directions have stop signs (one road is a through street at T-intersections).
Who Has Right-of-Way at a 3-Way Stop?
(Targets "right of way at 3-way stop")
- Basic Rule:
- The first vehicle to stop proceeds first.
- Tiebreakers:
- Simultaneous Arrival: Yield to the driver on your right.
- Facing Each Other:
- If both are going straight, proceed together.
- If one is turning left, the driver going straight (or right) has priority.
- Through Street Priority:
- At T-intersections, the road without a stop sign has right-of-way.
Example Scenario:
You arrive at a 3-way stop with a car to your right. They arrived slightly earlier—let them go first. If you both stop at the same time, still yield to the right.
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