By Jesse White
Secretary of State
Illinois' right-of-way law determines who must yield and who may go first in many traffic situations. Although all motorists should be familiar with and obey the right-of-way law, they also should use courtesy and common sense to help avoid crashes.
When two vehicles approach an intersection from different roads at the same time and there are no stop signs, yield signs or traffic lights, the driver on the left must yield to the driver on the right. However, the driver on the right should be prepared to yield if the other driver does not.
When more than one vehicle arrives at the intersection, the first driver to stop should go first, and the others should take their turns cautiously. When two vehicles reach the intersection at the same time, the driver on the left should yield to the driver on the right.
Drivers must yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic when turning left at an intersection, alley or driveway. If you are in an intersection with lights, you may finish your left turn even if the light changes to red. If you are not in the intersection when the light turns red, you must wait for the green light before turning. You also must wait until all crossing traffic has cleared the intersection safely before turning.
After making a proper stop and yielding to traffic or pedestrians within the intersection, drivers on a one-way street are permitted to turn left at a red light onto another one-way street heading left. When other drivers are not following the rules of the road, be smart and yield the right-of-way to avoid an accident.
Be safe–stay alert
Follow these tips to ensure your safety in and around your vehicle. Check the back seat of your car before entering. Keep your car keys separate from your other keys. Never hide a set of keys on your vehicle.
Make sure your driveway is well lighted. Install a light over your garage and an automatic garage door opener. Stay inside your locked car until the garage door has closed.
Lock doors, roll up windows and close convertible tops and sunroofs before exiting your vehicle.
Keep a cell phone in your car for emergencies. Equip your car with a NEED HELP banner or sign in case of an emergency. Stay inside your locked car until police arrive.
Keep a first aid kit inside the car–not in the trunk. Keep the gas tank full. Top it off when the gas gauge drops below half a tank, and fill up during daylight hours.
Have fluid levels and tire pressure checked often to reduce the risk of flat tires and mechanical problems. Make yourself more visible by driving with your lights on, even in full daylight. Never pick up hitchhikers.
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