What does it mean to yield the right of way?

Yielding the right of way means allowing another driver or pedestrian to go first. This practice is essential for maintaining safety and preventing collisions at intersections, crosswalks, and other points on the roadway where multiple users may interact. Understanding when to yield helps in navigating traffic smoothly and signals to others on the road that you recognize their right to proceed.

When you yield, you may do so by slowing down, stopping (if necessary), and giving clear space for the other party to pass. This is particularly important in situations like merging onto highways, approaching four-way stops, or dealing with pedestrians at crosswalks.

In contrast, speeding up when another driver is approaching can create dangerous situations, particularly in busy intersections. Stopping all movement is not always required when yielding, as sometimes just slowing down may be sufficient. Ignoring other road users defeats the purpose of safe driving and can lead to accidents; it's crucial to be aware of your surroundings and the actions of others on the road.