Understanding and adhering to Maryland’s right-of-way laws is essential for maintaining safety and order on the state’s roads. These laws define how drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists should interact, aiming to prevent accidents and ensure smooth traffic flow. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Maryland’s right-of-way regulations, offering vital information for all road users.
Defining Right-of-Way
In Maryland, the term “right-of-way” refers to the legal right of a pedestrian, vehicle, or bicycle to proceed in a particular situation ahead of others. Yielding the right-of-way means allowing another road user to go first. It’s crucial to understand that even if you have the right-of-way, the law mandates exercising caution to prevent collisions.
Intersections
Intersections are common points of conflict, making right-of-way rules particularly important:
- Controlled Intersections: At intersections regulated by stop signs or traffic signals, drivers must obey the signals and signs. Yield to pedestrians legally crossing and to other vehicles as directed by the signals.
- Uncontrolled Intersections: When approaching an intersection without signs or signals, reduce speed and be prepared to stop for traffic on the right or left. Yield to vehicles already in the intersection or those approaching from the right. More details at Maryland Statutes.
- T-Intersections: At a “T” intersection without signs, the driver on the terminating road must yield to traffic on the through road.
Pedestrian Crossings
Pedestrian safety is a priority in Maryland:
- Crosswalks: Drivers must yield to pedestrians in both marked and unmarked crosswalks. An unmarked crosswalk exists at any intersection where the sidewalks meet. More details are available at the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT).
- Jaywalking: Pedestrians must exercise caution and not step into traffic that is too close for a driver to yield.
Turning Maneuvers
Specific rules apply when making turns:
- Left Turns: Drivers intending to turn left within an intersection or into an alley, private road, or driveway must yield to oncoming traffic that is close enough to pose a hazard. Proceed only when it’s safe.
- U-Turns: If the driver of a vehicle intends to turn to go in the opposite direction, the driver shall yield the right-of-way to any approaching vehicle that is so near as to be an immediate danger.
Entering Highways
When entering a highway from a private road, driveway, or any place that is not a highway:
- Duty to Stop: The driver must stop before entering the highway.
- Yielding Right-of-Way: After stopping, the driver must yield the right-of-way to any vehicle approaching on the highway.
Emergency Vehicles
When an emergency vehicle approaches using audible and visual signals:
- Action Required: Drivers must immediately pull over to the right edge of the road and stop until the emergency vehicle has passed. If in an intersection, proceed through it before pulling over safely.
Move Over Law
Maryland’s Move Over Law requires drivers to exercise due care when approaching stationary emergency or service vehicles:
- Action Required: Upon approaching a stationary authorized emergency vehicle, tow truck, or highway maintenance vehicle displaying flashing lights, drivers must change lanes into a lane not adjacent to the vehicle, if safe to do so. If a lane change is not possible, reduce speed and be prepared to stop.
Special Situations
Certain scenarios require additional attention:
- Entering Roadways from Unpaved Roads: Drivers entering a paved highway from an unpaved road must stop and yield the right-of-way to vehicles on the paved highway.
- School Buses: Drivers must stop for school buses with flashing red lights and extended stop signs, regardless of the direction from which they are approaching. Remain stopped until the bus resumes motion or the driver signals to proceed.
Consequences of Failing to Yield
Not yielding the right-of-way can lead to severe consequences:
- Legal Repercussions: Violations can result in fines, points on your driving record, and potential community service or jail time. More details at MDOT.
- Safety Risks: Failing to yield increases the likelihood of collisions, endangering drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists.
Staying Informed
Traffic laws can evolve. To stay updated:
- Consult Official Resources: Regularly review the Maryland Department of Transportation website.
- Stay Abreast of New Laws: Legislation affecting right-of-way rules may change. For instance, recent laws have addressed pedestrian rights and jaywalking regulations.
Conclusion
Understanding and respecting right-of-way laws is essential for the safety of all road users in Maryland. By adhering to these rules, drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists contribute to a harmonious and secure traffic environment. Always exercise caution, remain aware of your surroundings, and prioritize safety over asserting right-of-way.
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