It is essential to comprehend right-of-way legislation in order to drive safely and legally. In order to maintain efficient traffic flow and lower the number of accidents, these rules in Alabama regulate how bikes, pedestrians, and drivers interact on the roads.
This page offers a thorough explanation of Alabama’s right-of-way laws, including a range of potential situations that drivers may run into.
Crossroads
Knowing who has the right-of-way is crucial since intersections are frequently the scene of conflicts.
Managed Crossroads
At intersections when traffic signals are in effect:
- Green Light: Unless otherwise instructed, cars are free to drive straight ahead or make a turn. Drivers must, however, yield to pedestrians who are legally present at the crossing or at a nearby crosswalk.
- Red Light: Cars have to stop completely. Drivers may turn right after halting, yielding to pedestrians and other vehicles, unless a sign specifically states otherwise. (Code of Alabama § 32-5A-32)
Unmanaged intersections
For crossroads where there are no signs or signals:
- Simultaneous Arrival: The driver on the left must give way to the vehicle on the right when two cars arrive at an intersection from separate highways about the same time. (Code of Alabama § 32-5A-110)
Crosswalks and Pedestrians
In Alabama, pedestrian safety is a top concern.
- Crosswalks with and without markings: At intersections, vehicles are required to yield to pedestrians using any crosswalk.
- Crossing Outside Crosswalks: Pedestrians must yield to all traffic when crossing at locations other than crosswalks.
- Sidewalks: Cars pulling out of driveways or alleyways have to give way to walkers on sidewalks.
U-turns and turning
There are some guidelines to follow when turning:
- Turning left requires drivers to yield to approaching traffic that is close enough to be dangerous.
- U-turns are only allowed when they can be executed safely and without obstructing other traffic.
Emergency Automobiles
When driving up to emergency vehicles that have sirens or lights on:
- Drivers are required to stop completely, move to the right, and yield the right-of-way immediately.
Lane changes and merging
Smooth traffic flow is ensured by proper merging:
- Highway Entry: When a vehicle enters a highway, it must yield to oncoming traffic.
- When changing lanes, always give way to cars in the lane you plan to join.
Buses for schools
It is crucial to protect children:
- Stopping: Unless on a split highway with a barrier, all vehicles must stop when a school bus extends its stop arm, regardless of approach direction.
Law of Move Over
The Move Over Law in Alabama improves stationary vehicle safety:
- Stationary Vehicles: Authorized parked cars with flashing lights require drivers to change lanes. Reduce your speed and drive carefully if you can’t change lanes safely.
In conclusion
Respecting right-of-way regulations is crucial for everyone’s safety on the road. Drivers can create a safer and more effective transportation environment in Alabama by being aware of and abiding by these regulations. Consult the Alabama Department of Transportation and the Alabama Code for more specific details.
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