California Traffic School Practice Test

At an uncontrolled intersection, the rule of thumb for determining which vehicle has the right of way is based on the principle of the first vehicle to arrive. Therefore, the vehicle that arrives first at the intersection has the right of way. This principle promotes safety and helps to avoid confusion and potential collisions since all drivers can ascertain who should proceed without the guidance of traffic signals or signs. In situations where two or more vehicles arrive simultaneously, additional rules may apply, such as yielding to the vehicle on the right. However, the primary rule at an uncontrolled intersection is simply that the first vehicle to reach the intersection goes first. This prevents uncertainty and ensures more predictable traffic flow, allowing drivers to make decisions that maintain safety.