Chapter 6: Navigating the Roads

Knowing the rules for interacting with other vehicles is the foundation of collision-free driving. Rules for yielding the right-of-way, turning, and passing are not suggestions; they are laws that create a predictable traffic flow. Mastering these procedures is essential for the Nevada road test and, more importantly, for safely navigating intersections, highways, and complex traffic situations every day.

Right-of-Way

The concept of “right-of-way” does not grant anyone the right to proceed; instead, it dictates who must yield (give up the right-of-way) to another road user. Failure to yield is one of the most common causes of crashes in Nevada. The primary goal is always to avoid a collision, even if you legally have the right-of-way.

• Uncontrolled Intersections: At an intersection with no signs or signals, the driver on the left must yield to the driver on the right. If you arrive at the same time as another vehicle to your right, you must let them go first.
• All-Way Stops: The first vehicle to arrive at the intersection and make a complete stop is the first to proceed. If two or more vehicles arrive at the same time, the driver on the left must yield to the driver on their immediate right.
• Driveways and Private Roads: Any vehicle entering a main road from a driveway, alley, or private road must stop and yield to all traffic and pedestrians on the main road.
• Merging: When entering a freeway, you must yield to traffic already traveling on it. Adjust your speed in the acceleration lane to find a safe gap to merge into.
• Pedestrians: Drivers must yield to pedestrians in marked or unmarked crosswalks. Be especially cautious at intersections and stop for any pedestrian attempting to cross. A driver must yield to a blind pedestrian using a guide dog or a white cane, stopping if necessary.
• Emergency Vehicles: When an emergency vehicle (police, fire, ambulance) approaches using its siren and flashing lights, you must immediately pull over to the far right side of the road, clear of any intersection, and stop. Remain stopped until the emergency vehicle has passed.

Common Mistake:
Panicking when an emergency vehicle approaches and stopping abruptly in the middle of the road or in an intersection. The correct action is to pull as far to the right as is safe and then come to a complete stop.

Turns, U-Turns, and Roundabouts

Executing turns and navigating complex intersections requires a clear, step-by-step process to ensure safety and communicate your intentions to others.