right-of-way

Basic idea in driving, designed to govern situations in which two drivers contend for the same space. Canonical examples:

• The Yield sign informs one driver to allow other drivers to proceed before he proceeds.
• Traffic lights or stop signs govern right-of-way at intersections.

Never use right-of-way as an excuse for endangering your own life, car, or passengers. The law doesn't pay bills or resurrect the dead.