Rules of the road guide

Ontario Right-of-Way Rules with Examples

Right-of-way rules tell drivers when to let another road user proceed; a signal or assumption never makes an unsafe movement acceptable.

By the DriveTest Pro editorial team · Published · Reviewed · 7 min read

Key takeaways

  • At an uncontrolled intersection, the earlier vehicle proceeds first; simultaneous arrivals yield to the vehicle on the right.
  • A turning driver must yield to road users crossing the intended path.
  • Drivers entering from a driveway or private road yield to road traffic and pedestrians.

Uncontrolled intersections

When no signs or lights control the intersection, yield to a vehicle that arrived first. If vehicles arrive at the same time from different roads, the driver on the left yields to the driver on the right.

  • Slow enough to assess every approach.
  • Look for pedestrians and cyclists as well as vehicles.
  • If the situation is uncertain, avoid forcing the right-of-way.

Turns and driveways

A driver turning left waits for approaching traffic and for pedestrians crossing the intended path. A right-turning driver also yields to pedestrians and checks for cyclists approaching from behind. A driver entering from a driveway yields before joining the road.

  • Signal before the movement.
  • Check mirrors and blind spots.
  • Proceed only when the complete path is clear.

Pedestrian crossings

Ontario's handbook directs drivers to yield and wait for pedestrians to completely cross at pedestrian crossovers and school crossings with crossing guards. Use the official source for the full legal context.

Practise right-of-way questionsExplore more guides

Related G1 guides

Continue with the next topic that supports this part of your preparation.