We’ve all been here before. You’ve pulled up to a four-way stop sign exactly when two other drivers belly up to the intersection. Navigating a four-way stop can be straightforward when one or two cars arrive at a time, but confusion often results when multiple vehicles reach the intersection simultaneously.

There’s actually a rule of thumb we should all follow to avoid the herky-jerky “starts and stops” (and if you’re in the Midwest, there’ll be some “Opes!” thrown out, too).

“You go!”…“No, you go!”

At a four-way stop, the primary rule is that the first vehicle to arrive has the right of way. Drivers should approach the intersection with caution, coming to a complete stop before determining who has the priority to proceed. However, complications occur when two or more vehicles arrive at the same time.

In such scenarios, the vehicle on the left must yield to the car on the right. This means that if you find yourself at a four-way stop with another car directly to your right, you should allow them to go first. This right-hand rule of thumb helps prevent deadlock and ensures a predictable pattern of movement through the intersection.

Of course, if two cars arrive at the same time, are directly across from each other, and are going straight ahead without turning, they can proceed forward after stopping. After all, in these cases, there is no right-hand positioned vehicle.

It’s also important for everyone to communicate. Making eye contact with other drivers and using turn signals can help indicate intentions. Try your best to reduce uncertainty and the risk of a collision.

If confusion persists, consider just letting the other folks go. Waiting patiently can prevent escalated frustration or even a fender bender.

While the basic principle of “first come, first served” applies to four-way stops, the right-hand rule of thumb helps us get through a congested four-way stop smoothly.

Source: American Safety Council