Four Way Stops
I think Sgt. Eaton describes a lot of drivers in the first few lines of this week’s #traffictiptuesdsay
“Hello Traffic Tip friends, and welcome to another edition of TTT.
This week, I thought I would get very specific and chat about just the tip that some people need. How do you handle a four way stop?
Should you sit for twenty minutes and wait until everyone else has gone?
Do you say “forget it”, leave your car at the intersection, and just walk back home?
Do you close your eyes and stomp the gas, hoping you don’t hit anyone as you roar through the intersection?
I personally don’t recommend any of these, but if you are looking for the correct answer, you have come to the right place. Let’s get to it!
A ‘four-way’ intersection is usually controlled by either stop signs or a traffic light. In the case of a traffic light, the answer is pretty simple. Green means go and red means be patient and wait your turn. However, in the case of an intersection controlled by four stop signs, it can be a little more confusing. So who DOES the law say should have the right-of-way? The answer is…..NO ONE. Maryland law does not specify who gets the right of way. Maryland law actually tells you to whom you must yield while you are driving.
In the case of a four way stop, the law states that all drivers must yield to the vehicle operator who arrived and came to a complete stop first. In the rare event that more than one driver arrived at their stop sign at the same time, you should yield to any driver who is to your right. Eye contact, patience, and courtesy are necessary tools for navigating a four way stop.
“BUT SGT EATON…WHAT HAPPENS WHEN A TRAFFIC LIGHT GOES OUT OR ALL THE LIGHTS ARE ON FLASH?
A malfunctioning traffic light should be treated exactly the same as a four way stop. A larger intersection can be much more intimidating, especially for younger drivers, but if everyone follows these tips, traffic will move along safely (Of course, you should still remain cautious in case there are gas-stompers out there who are not reading Traffic Tip Tuesday).
As always, if you have a question or concern, please leave it in the comments below. Also, if you have a specific concern with unsafe driving in your area, such as speeding, drag racing, etc., give us a call at one of the numbers below.
Until next week, slow down, pay attention, wear your seatbelt, and drive safely!
HCSO Main Line – 410.838.6600
Northern Precinct – 410.692.7880
Southern Precinct – 410.612.1717
HCSO Traffic Unit – 443.409.3324