Right-of-Way and Safe Driving in Tennessee

Driving through traffic safely requires attention, focus, and a full understanding of the rules of the road. For example, adhering to right-of-way rules is paramount for safe and efficient transportation. When drivers fail to follow Tennessee traffic rules, it can result in serious car accidents, leading individuals to seek legal assistance.

If you were injured in a car accident due to someone else’s failure to follow rules, share the facts of your case with a seasoned Nashville personal injury lawyer. By holding responsible parties accountable, you can access the financial compensation you need to settle the costs of medical expenses and property damage.

Understanding TN Right-of-Way Rules

Dictating who has the legal right to proceed first in specific traffic situations, right-of-way rules ensure an organized flow of vehicles on Tennessee roadways. Familiarizing yourself with these rules is crucial for preventing accidents.

• First in, first out. If two vehicles approach an uncontrolled intersection, meaning there are no traffic lights or road signs, the driver who reaches the intersection first goes first. The next driver to arrive must yield until the first driver has cleared the intersection.
• Four-way stops. Similar to uncontrolled intersections, when there is a four-way stop, the first vehicle to come to a complete stop has the right-of-way. If there is a situation where multiple vehicles arrive simultaneously, then the vehicle on the right proceeds first.
• Left turns. If you are choosing to make a left turn at an intersection, you need to yield to oncoming traffic unless you have a green arrow.
• Pedestrian crossways. When there is a crosswalk, pedestrians always have the right-of-way, meaning drivers must yield to pedestrians, whether the crosswalk is marked or not.
• Emergency vehicles. When an emergency vehicle has activated their lights and sirens, they have an absolute right-of-way, so other vehicles on the roadway must move to the right and stop in order to allow the emergency vehicle to pass.

Ignoring right-of-way rules can lead to a range of accidents. For example, failing to follow rules at intersections can lead to T-bone collisions and ignoring pedestrian right-of-way can result in accidents involving pedestrians.

How a Nashville Lawyer Can Help

If you’ve been involved in a car accident due to the failure of another party to adhere to right-of-way rules, a skilled Nashville injury lawyer can assess the specifics of your case to determine liability and potential damages. Once it is established you have a valid claim, your Nashville personal injury lawyer will begin the process of  gathering evidence and negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf.

Understanding and respecting Tennessee right-of-way rules is a key way accidents are prevented. After all, prioritizing safe driving benefits everyone on the road and contributes to a safer community.

Has an injury you sustained due to another’s right-of-way traffic violation led to a slew of accident-related expenses? There may be a path to holding the responsible party accountable, talk to the skilled personal injury lawyers at Calhoun Law, PLC. Schedule your free and confidential consultation today.