1. Right of Way at Intersections

One of the most misunderstood rules in driving is who has the right of way at intersections. Many drivers assume they automatically have the right of way in certain situations, but right of way is not a right—it must be given, not taken.

What You Should Know:

• At a four-way stop, the first car to come to a complete stop, goes first. If two cars stop at the same time, the driver on the right has the right of way.
• When turning left, you must yield to oncoming traffic unless you have a green arrow.
• Pedestrians always have the right of way at crosswalks, even if there’s no traffic signal.

Ignoring right-of-way rules can lead to collisions and tickets. When in doubt, always yield to avoid accidents.

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2. Merging Onto a Highway

Another of the most misunderstood rules in driving involves merging onto highways. Some drivers believe that traffic on the highway must slow down to let them in, but that’s not the case.

The Correct Way to Merge:

• Adjust your speed to match traffic before merging.
• Use your turn signal early to alert other drivers.
• Yield to vehicles already on the highway—they have the right of way.

Highway drivers are not required to slow down or move over for merging cars, so it’s up to the merging driver to enter safely.

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3. Turning Right on Red

Many drivers incorrectly assume that turning right on red is always allowed. While it’s legal in most places, there are important conditions you must follow.

What the Law Says:

• You must come to a complete stop before turning.
• If there’s a “No Turn on Red” sign, you must wait for a green light.
• You must yield to pedestrians and oncoming traffic before making the turn.

Rolling through a red light without stopping is a traffic violation that could result in a fine or accident.

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4. Using the Left Lane

The left lane, often called the “fast lane,” is commonly misused. Many drivers think they can stay in this lane indefinitely, but that’s not the case.

Left Lane Rules to Remember:

• The left lane is primarily for passing slower vehicles.
• If you’re driving below the speed limit or blocking traffic, move over.
• In some states, staying in the left lane without passing is illegal.

Using the left lane correctly helps keep traffic flowing smoothly and reduces road rage incidents.

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5. Four-Way Stops Confusion

Four-way stops are another area where the most misunderstood rules in driving come into play. Many drivers hesitate, wave others through, or go out of turn, causing confusion and delays.

How to Navigate a Four-Way Stop:

• The first car to completely STOP goes first.
• If two vehicles arrive at the same time, the one on the right has the right of way.
• If facing each other and one driver is turning left, they must yield to the driver going straight.

Being courteous is great, but following the rules is even better. Predictability keeps intersections safe.

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6. Lane Splitting for Motorcycles

Lane splitting—when motorcycles ride between lanes of traffic—is legal in some states but misunderstood by many drivers.

What You Need to Know:

• In states where it’s legal, motorcycles can ride between slow-moving or stopped cars.
• Drivers should never intentionally block a motorcyclist from lane splitting.
• Motorcyclists must split lanes safely, without excessive speed.

If you drive in a state where lane splitting is legal, stay alert and give motorcyclists space.

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7. Emergency Vehicles and the “Move Over” Law

Many drivers don’t know how to react when an emergency vehicle approaches, making this one of the most misunderstood rules in driving.

What the Law Requires:

• If an emergency vehicle with flashing lights is behind you, pull over to the right and stop.
• If approaching a stopped emergency vehicle, move over a lane or slow down.
• Blocking or failing to yield to an emergency vehicle can result in a hefty fine.

Following this rule keeps emergency responders and stranded motorists safe.

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8. Roundabouts: Who Goes First?

Roundabouts are replacing many traditional intersections, but they remain one of the most misunderstood rules in driving. Many drivers stop when they shouldn’t or fail to yield when required.

How to Navigate a Roundabout:

• Yield to traffic already inside the roundabout.
• Enter only when there’s a safe gap.
• Do not stop inside the roundabout—keep moving until you exit.

Mastering roundabouts can help reduce congestion and prevent accidents.

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9. School Zone Speed Limits

Speed limits in school zones are often ignored or misunderstood, leading to unsafe conditions for children.

School Zone Speed Rules:

• The speed limit is typically 25 mph when children are present.
• Some school zones have flashing lights to indicate reduced speed limits.
• Speeding in a school zone can result in higher fines than regular speeding violations.

Always slow down and stay alert in school zones—children can be unpredictable.

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10. Yield Signs vs. Stop Signs

Many drivers treat yield signs like stop signs (or ignore them completely), creating unnecessary stops or dangerous situations.

Key Differences:

• Stop signs require a full stop, no exceptions.
• Yield signs mean slow down and give the right of way, but stopping isn’t required unless necessary.

Knowing when to yield versus stop keeps traffic moving smoothly and safely.

The Most Misunderstood Rules in Driving

Many of the most misunderstood rules in driving stem from assumptions, bad habits, or outdated knowledge. By understanding right-of-way rules, proper merging techniques, and the correct use of lanes, drivers can prevent accidents, avoid fines, and make roads safer for everyone.