1. The four-way stop, where everyone arrives at the same time.
This is a classic. Four cars arrive at a four-way stop at exactly the right time.
The rule: The general rule is “first come, first served.” If a car arrives at the same time, it will follow the previous one. When four cars arrive at the same time, this rule can create a traffic jam under all traffic conditions.
Why is this confusing? Although the rule is on paper, in reality, it’s rare for four cars to actually arrive at the same time. The difference is minimal. When you’re not on the road, your vehicle could get stuck.
Solution: Patience, clear communication (head nods, hand signals), and sometimes the most confident (but cautious) driver will simply initiate the movement, and the others will follow. Eye contact can be crucial.
2. Irregular rules (signs or regulations)
This doesn’t apply to your particular community, whether in a residential area or in the countryside.
Rule: The vehicle must have right of way over what comes after it. Also, I see you at the beginning, following precedent.
Why it’s confusing: Signs are very strict; drivers often assume the main road has right of way, even though it’s technically an unregulated intersection. Visibility can be compromised; it’s automatically due if the vehicle is moving at a similar speed in different directions; it can be difficult to stabilize if it’s coming first or is actually “on the other side.”
Solution: Approach with extreme caution, slow down carefully, maintain full direction, and don’t get blocked. Dare to note that you don’t need to follow the procedure and proceed alone when it’s far away.
3. Please note that there are situations where the law is not legally correct
