Massachusetts Fines and Limits Permit Practice Test

Which statement is true regarding right-of-way at intersections?

1. Always yield to vehicles on your left

2. Inclement weather requires yielding to all vehicles

3. Yield to pedestrians crossing the intersection

4. Drivers must always take turns at stop signs

The correct answer is: Yield to pedestrians crossing the intersection

Yielding to pedestrians crossing the intersection is vital for ensuring their safety and is a fundamental rule in traffic regulations. Pedestrians have the right-of-way in many situations, especially at marked crosswalks or intersections. This is designed to protect those who are most vulnerable on the road and to facilitate the safe passage of individuals who are walking. In the context of the other statements, always yielding to vehicles on your left may not be applicable in all situations, since the right-of-way rules depend on specific traffic signals or signs. Inclement weather does necessitate increased caution, but it does not universally require yielding to all vehicles; rather, drivers should adjust their speed and be mindful of other road users. As for taking turns at stop signs, while drivers should follow the established rules at stops, it does not imply that they always need to take turns, as the right-of-way is based on the order of arrival and other factors. Understanding that pedestrians have the right-of-way reinforces the commitment to road safety and responsible driving behaviors, particularly at intersections where various road users interact.