Right of Way Rules
- 1/25At a junction with no signs or markings, you must give way to
In Ireland, the default rule at unmarked junctions is to yield to traffic from the right, ensuring smooth flow and avoiding collisions.
When turning right at a crossroads, you must give way to
Wait until it is safe and clear. The oncoming traffic has priority unless there is a specific signal or sign allowing you to turn first.
On a roundabout, vehicles already on the roundabout
Enter only when the way is clear. Always yield to vehicles coming from the right when approaching a roundabout in Ireland.
When merging onto a motorway, you must
Adjust your speed to match traffic. Do not force entry. Vehicles on the motorway have the right of way.
A pedestrian at a zebra crossing has
Drivers must stop and allow pedestrians to fully cross before proceeding. This rule is strictly enforced in Irish urban zones.
When exiting a minor road onto a major road, you must
Always stop or yield as marked, and proceed only when completely safe. Major road traffic has priority.
If two vehicles arrive at a crossroads at the same time
Yielding to the right applies unless otherwise signposted. This prevents confusion and maintains orderly flow.
At a T-junction, the traffic on the through road
Vehicles turning onto the through road must wait until it is clear. This applies unless signals or markings say otherwise.
When an emergency vehicle approaches with flashing lights
Pull over safely and allow the vehicle to pass. Emergency services always have priority, even at signals.
When approaching a yield sign, you must
Only proceed when there is a safe gap. Yield signs require you to be extra cautious at intersections and junctions.
A vehicle turning left must yield to
Before turning, check mirrors and blind spots. Yielding prevents collisions with vulnerable road users.
When traffic lights are out of order at a junction
Treat the junction as unmarked. Reduce speed and yield as you would at a normal uncontrolled intersection.
In a car park, the vehicle on the main access road
Wait for a safe opportunity before pulling out. Car park layouts follow the general yield to the main road rule.
When exiting a roundabout, you must give way to
Always check for and yield to pedestrians before leaving the roundabout. Safety for all road users is key.
When entering a yellow box junction
Yellow box rules help prevent traffic gridlock. Only enter if you can fully cross and not block the junction.
If a cyclist is crossing in front of you at a junction
Cyclists have equal rights at intersections. Always give them time and space to cross safely.
A vehicle already turning at a signal-controlled junction
Do not obstruct a vehicle that is already in the process of turning when lights change. Allow it to finish the movement.
At a crossroads with equal priority, the rule is
This simple rule reduces uncertainty when no signs are present. Always look both ways, especially in rural areas.
When two vehicles want to turn right at a junction
This is safer and provides better visibility, as per Irish Road Safety Authority recommendations.
When entering a one-lane bridge or tunnel
Look for signs that assign priority. Stop and wait if the oncoming traffic has the right of way.
At a pedestrian crossing with a flashing amber light
The flashing amber allows drivers to proceed only when the crossing is clear. Yield to anyone already stepping off the kerb.
Right of way rules at mini-roundabouts are
Yield to the right and circle clockwise. Mini-roundabouts are common in towns and must be treated with care.
When reversing from a driveway onto a public road
The reversing vehicle always gives way. Check thoroughly for pedestrians, cyclists, or vehicles.
A vehicle exiting a bus lane must yield to
Merge only when it is safe and clear. Do not assume drivers will slow down to let you out.
At a junction with a stop sign and a solid white line
A full stop is mandatory, even if the road looks clear. Yield to all traffic before proceeding cautiously.