SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/drive-first-at-intersection

At an unsigned intersection, who normally goes first?

The first to arrive normally has the right-of-way.

  1. The first to arrive ✔
  2. The largest vehicle
  3. The fastest vehicle

Why: Arrival order decides who normally goes first. Still watch for people or vehicles that may not yield.

Huh, didn't know that: Right-of-way is something drivers yield, not something they should force others to give.

The dad joke
Why did the intersection introduce everyone? It was great at crossing paths.
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References

Answer: The first to arrive. Arrival order decides who normally goes first. Still watch for people or vehicles that may not yield.

  1. California Driver's Handbook, Right-of-Way Rules www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/handbook/california-driver-handbook/laws-and-rules-of-the-road
    The vehicle that arrives to the intersection first has the right-of-way.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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