Changing Lanes: Who Has the Right-of-Way?


When a driver in the left lane and a driver in the right lane both want to be in the middle lane, who has the right-of-way? You share the multiple lanes with other drivers, and if there isn’t a known decor for how to share these lanes, that lane-choosing freedom quickly turns into lane-choosing madness. Learn more about how to safely change lanes next time you're behind the wheel.

Understanding Traffic Lane Basics

There are the commonly known traffic lane rules: left lane is for passing, right lane is for slower drivers, always use your turn signal when switching lanes, and don’t tailgate other drivers (please do not tailgate). Great! But what happens when Ashley in the left lane and Lori in the right lane both want to be in the middle lane? While your state may have slightly different regulations, here are the general guidelines most places have.

Who Has the Right of Way on Highways?

While each state may determine its own code of conduct on the road, many states have adopted a "right has right of right-of-way" such as at T-intersections. However, when you're on a motorway that has three lanes or more heading in the same direction, the right one doesn't have right of way. The driver in the right lane shall give way to the driver on the left. This means that Lori would have to yield to Ashley. 

This provision is to allow traffic from the left to enter a slower lane safely and make their way to the right. It's also to assist drivers to reach the right lane in case they have an exit coming up. The right lane also makes provision for those who want to stop in the event of an emergency. However, traffic entering the freeway needs to yield to cars that are already on the freeway and should only join when it's safe to do so. 

Who Has the Right of Way When Lanes Merge?

When merging, both drivers have the responsibility to merge safely. The driver already in the lane has right of way. That said, if the driver behaves in a way that makes it difficult to allow other drivers to enter the lane, they may be liable in a collision. Improper behavior can be slowing down or speeding up to close the gap and prevent other drivers from joining the road safely. 

It's also good to note that when smaller roads merge with larger ones, the drivers on the larger road have right of way. 

Important Safety Tips to Remember When Changing Lanes

Merging into another lane may seem daunting, especially if you're a new driver, and a safety-first approach can go a long way: 

  • Only enter the lane when it's safe to do so 

  • Ensure there is enough space to enter the lane 

  • Try to match the speed of the drivers already in the lane, if it's safe to do so

It's important to note that even if you have right of way, you still need to have a safety-first approach. 

Become a Lane-Changing Pro With Aceable

Now that you know the rules of the road, you should feel a little better about knowing how to safely change lanes on those big, multiple-lane roadways. To learn more about the laws and rules of driving, begin your driver's ed course today! 

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