X Driving Tests
Road Rules

Understanding Indiana's Right-of-Way Laws

3 min read

Navigating Indiana's roads requires a clear understanding of right-of-way laws to ensure safety for all road users. This guide outlines the key scenarios where right-of-way rules apply, helping drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists make informed decisions.

Intersections

Uncontrolled Intersections

At intersections without traffic signals or signs, the vehicle that arrives first has the right-of-way. If two vehicles arrive simultaneously, the driver on the left must yield to the driver on the right.

Controlled Intersections

  • Stop Signs: Drivers must come to a complete stop and yield to any vehicle or pedestrian already in the intersection.
  • Yield Signs: Drivers must slow down and yield to traffic and pedestrians. If necessary, come to a complete stop before proceeding. Failure to yield can result in liability if a collision occurs.

Left Turns

When making a left turn at an intersection, drivers must yield to oncoming traffic that is close enough to pose a hazard. Once it's safe, the turn can be completed.

Roundabouts

In roundabouts, vehicles already circulating have the right-of-way. Drivers entering the roundabout must yield to traffic from the left and wait for a safe gap before merging.

Pedestrians

Crosswalks

  • Marked Crosswalks: Drivers must yield to pedestrians within any marked crosswalk at an intersection.
  • Unmarked Crosswalks: Even if not marked, crosswalks at intersections require drivers to yield to pedestrians.

Outside Crosswalks

Pedestrians crossing outside of crosswalks must yield to all vehicles. Jaywalking, or crossing outside designated areas, is a fineable offense in Indiana.

Sidewalks

Drivers entering or exiting driveways or alleys must yield to pedestrians on sidewalks.

Cyclists

Cyclists are subject to the same rules as motor vehicles. They must:

  • Obey traffic signals and signs.
  • Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
  • Use hand signals when turning or stopping.
  • Ride in the same direction as traffic.

Emergency Vehicles

When an emergency vehicle with flashing lights and sirens approaches:

  • Move Over Law: Drivers must change lanes away from the emergency vehicle if possible. If not, they must slow down to at least 10 mph below the speed limit and proceed with caution.

Merging and Highway Entry

Drivers entering a highway must yield to traffic already on the highway. They should accelerate to match the speed of traffic and merge when it's safe. Existing highway traffic should not speed up to block merging vehicles.

Additional Resources

For more information on Indiana driving laws and safety: