• 25 Aug 2025

Right of Way Laws in North Carolina

In North Carolina, understanding right of way laws is essential for every driver. These laws dictate who has the legal priority to proceed in various traffic situations. Whether you're at a four-way stop, a busy intersection, or simply navigating a crosswalk, knowing the rules is crucial for preventing accidents. A failure to yield can lead to a serious collision, injuries, and a complex personal injury claim.

At Paul Robinson Law, P.L.L.C., we help people throughout the Raleigh, Cary, and Durham areas who have been hurt in accidents caused by a driver's negligence. We've seen firsthand how not following North Carolina right of way laws can change a person’s life forever. This guide breaks down the key rules of the road in North Carolina, and explains what to do if you've been injured in an accident.

What is a Right of Way?

The simplest answer to 'what is a right of way?' is that it's the legal right of a pedestrian or vehicle to proceed first. The concept is straightforward: the driver who has the right of way is allowed to go, while the other driver must wait or yield.

The state of North Carolina's General Statutes, specifically NCGS § 20-155, outlines specific rules that govern this. Violating these laws is a common cause of car accidents and can be considered negligence in a personal injury case.

Here's a breakdown of some of the most common traffic situations where right of way laws in NC apply, as defined by the statute.

Key Right of Way Laws in NC

Below are some of the most common situations where right of way laws in NC come into play. It's important to remember that yielding the right of way is about safety, not just who is 'right'.

• Intersections: According to NCGS § 20-155(a), when two vehicles approach or enter an intersection from different highways at approximately the same time, the driver on the left must yield the right of way to the vehicle on the right. NCGS § 20-155(b) also states that a driver turning left must yield to any oncoming vehicle that's an immediate hazard.
• Crosswalks: Under NCGS § 20-155(c), drivers in a business or residence district must yield the right of way to a pedestrian crossing in a marked or unmarked crosswalk. This highlights a driver's legal duty to look out for pedestrians.
• Traffic Circles: A specific rule for roundabouts is also included in the statute. NCGS § 20-155(d) requires drivers approaching a traffic circle to yield to any vehicle that is already inside it.
• Emergency Vehicles: While not a part of NCGS § 20-155, North Carolina's "Move Over Law" is another critical right of way rule. When you see an emergency vehicle—like an ambulance, police car, or fire truck—with flashing lights and sirens, you must pull over to the right side of the road and stop until the vehicle has passed.
• School Buses: When a school bus stops and its red lights are flashing, all traffic in both directions must stop. The only exception is on a highway with a median or physical barrier, where only traffic moving in the same direction as the bus must stop.

Consequences of Violating Right of Way Laws

A failure to yield can have serious legal consequences. Violating a highway right of way or roadway right of way can lead to fines, court costs, and points on your driver's license. The violation of a safety statute, like NCGS § 20-155, is often considered "negligence per se," which means the at-fault driver's negligence is presumed in a civil lawsuit.

However, the most severe consequence is often the accident itself. When a driver fails to yield and causes a collision, they are considered legally at fault. This opens the door for a personal injury claim, where you can seek compensation for:

• Medical bills and future medical treatment
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage to your vehicle

If you've been injured because another driver failed to yield, it's crucial to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney. It’s their job to prove the other driver’s negligence and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Explore Your Legal Options Today

After an accident, you shouldn’t have to fight the insurance company alone. At Paul Robinson Law, P.L.L.C., we have years of experience representing clients in Raleigh, Durham, Apex, and the surrounding areas. We know the ins and outs of right of way laws in NC and can build a strong case to get you the best possible outcome.

If you've been hurt in an accident where the other driver failed to yield, don't wait. Contact Paul Robinson Law today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll review your case and help you understand your legal options.