Understanding Right of Way Rules in Massachusetts and New Hampshire

Knowing who goes first at a stop sign might seem straightforward—but when drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians share the road, right of way rules can become confusing. These rules form the foundation for safe navigation across intersections, crosswalks, and roundabouts. For drivers in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, understanding right of way laws is essential—not only for avoiding collisions but also for avoiding liability in the event of a crash.

Whether you’re recovering from a collision or trying to prevent one, this guide will help clarify how right of way works and why it plays such an important role in both safety and legal responsibility.

Why Right of Way Rules Matter

Right of way rules serve several vital purposes on the road:

• Preventing accidents: When everyone follows the same set of rules, conflicts—and crashes—are less likely.
• Assigning fault: In personal injury cases, failure to yield can directly influence who is found at fault.
• Reducing ambiguity: Clear expectations at intersections, merges, and crossings help all road users make quicker, safer decisions.

If you’ve been injured in a crash involving a right-of-way violation, understanding these rules can be key in establishing fault and pursuing the compensation you may be entitled to.

Common Right of Way Scenarios

Here are some examples that frequently lead to confusion—and collisions:

• Four-way stop: The first to arrive has the right of way. If two arrive at the same time, the driver on the right proceeds first.
• T-intersections: Drivers on the terminating road must yield to traffic on the through road.
• Uncontrolled intersections: Yield to vehicles on your right if you arrive at the same time.
• Left turns: Always yield to oncoming traffic unless you have a green arrow or designated right of way.
• Pedestrian crosswalks: Drivers must yield to pedestrians, whether the crosswalk is marked or unmarked.
• Roundabouts: Vehicles already inside have the right of way. Yield before entering.
• Emergency vehicles: Always pull over and stop when lights and sirens are activated.
• School buses: Stop when a school bus is loading or unloading children—regardless of the direction you're traveling.

Right of Way for Pedestrians and Cyclists

Vulnerable road users like pedestrians and cyclists are given strong legal protections under Massachusetts and New Hampshire laws. But that doesn’t mean they're always granted the right of way:

• Pedestrians typically have the right of way in crosswalks, but they must also exercise reasonable caution.
• Cyclists must follow most of the same traffic laws as cars but must also yield to pedestrians when appropriate.

If you've been injured as a pedestrian or cyclist in a right-of-way conflict, you may want to explore your legal options for recovering medical expenses, lost wages, or other damages.

Legal and Financial Consequences

Violating right of way rules isn’t just dangerous—it can also be expensive:

• Tickets and license points
• Insurance premium increases
• Civil liability if an accident causes injuries or damages
• Potential loss of driving privileges in serious or repeat cases

In personal injury cases, failing to yield may shift liability and reduce or eliminate an at-fault driver’s ability to contest a claim.

Making Safer Roads for Everyone

Right of way rules aren’t just technicalities—they’re essential safeguards for everyone on the road. Whether you’re entering a roundabout, crossing an intersection, or turning left at a light, knowing (and respecting) who has the right of way can mean the difference between a safe trip and a serious accident.

For more about staying safe on the road, explore our page on Safe Driving Strategies or learn how Speed Limits affect accident liability in both states.