Understanding Wyoming’s right-of-way laws is essential for all road users to ensure safety and smooth traffic flow. These laws dictate who must yield in various driving scenarios, helping to prevent accidents and confusion on the road. Let’s delve into the key aspects of these regulations.

Intersections Without Signs or Signals

At intersections lacking traffic signs or signals, drivers must exercise caution. If another vehicle approaches from your right, you are required to yield, regardless of who arrives first. This practice helps prevent accidents and confusion.

Approaching Intersections

When approaching an intersection, it’s essential to yield to vehicles already in the intersection coming from a different road. This rule ensures that traffic moves without unnecessary stops.

Turning Left at Intersections

If you’re turning left, you must yield to oncoming traffic that is close enough to pose a hazard. Wait for a clear gap before making your turn to avoid potential collisions.

Stop and Yield Signs

At a stop sign, come to a complete stop at the marked line or before the crosswalk. After stopping, yield to any vehicle or pedestrian in the intersection or approaching closely. For yield signs, slow down and be prepared to stop if necessary, granting right-of-way to cross traffic.

Roundabouts

When approaching a roundabout, yield to traffic already circulating within it. Enter the roundabout only when there’s a safe gap, ensuring a smooth flow of vehicles.

Pedestrian Crossings

Pedestrians have specific rights and responsibilities:

At Crosswalks: Drivers must yield to pedestrians crossing the road within any marked or unmarked crosswalk at an intersection.

School Crosswalks: Extra caution is required near schools. Yield to pedestrians at school crosswalks, ensuring the safety of children.

Blind Pedestrians: Always yield to blind pedestrians identified by a white cane or guide dog, even if they are crossing outside of designated crosswalks.

Emergency Vehicles

Upon the approach of an emergency vehicle using audible or visual signals, drivers must immediately pull over to the right-hand edge of the roadway and stop until the vehicle has passed. Do not stop in an intersection; proceed through it before pulling over.

Merging and Lane Changes

When merging onto a highway, yield to vehicles already traveling on the main road. Adjust your speed to match the traffic and merge safely without disrupting the flow.

Funeral Processions

While not legally required, it is customary and respectful to yield to funeral processions. Allow the entire procession to pass before proceeding, even if you have a green light.

Penalties for Failure to Yield

Failing to yield the right-of-way can result in fines ranging from $100 to $750, depending on the severity of the violation. Such violations are recorded on your driving record, which can impact insurance rates and driving privileges.

Safety Tips

Stay Alert: Always be aware of your surroundings and anticipate the actions of other road users.

Obey Traffic Signals: Adhere to all traffic signs and signals, and understand their meanings.

Be Patient: Avoid aggressive driving. Yielding when required promotes safety for everyone.

Communicate: Use turn signals to indicate your intentions to other drivers and pedestrians.

Understanding and following Wyoming’s right-of-way laws are crucial steps toward reducing accidents and ensuring a safer driving environment for all. By yielding appropriately and staying vigilant, drivers can contribute to a more orderly and predictable traffic flow.