A common mistake made by the "professionals" within the driving fraternity; driving instructors, enthusiast and government websites and examiners is constantly referring to ‘Right of Way’.
“Who has ‘Right of Way’ at the roundabout, unmarked junction, etc?”
There is no such thing as ‘Right of Way’ in driving! One has a ‘Right of Way’ in other aspects but the driving term is ‘Priority’.
‘Priority over oncoming vehicles’. ‘Give Way to oncoming vehicles’. (Give ‘Priority’ to vehicles from the opposite direction).
No one has Priority at unmarked junctions. Courtesy is generally applied.
(At an unmarked crossroads no one has priority. If there are no road signs or markings do not assume that you have priority. Remember that other drivers may assume they have the right to go. No type of vehicle has priority but it’s courteous to give way to large vehicles. Also look out in particular for cyclists and motorcyclists).
Sometimes you have to give way. ‘Give Way to traffic approaching from the right', as an example.
Use of public rights of way (.gov.uk)
You can walk on all public rights of way.
Some public rights of way are also open to horse riders, cyclists or motorists.
You can use:
- Footpaths - for walking, running or mobility vehicles
- Bridleways - for walking, horse riding, cycling or mobility vehicles
- Restricted byways - for any transport without a motor and mobility vehicles
- Byways open to all traffic - for any kind of transport, including cars (but they’re mainly used by walkers, cyclists and horse riders).
We all know that phrases like 'Right of Way’ are often used, but are they correct? So, I encourage all Tutors, and Drivers to get into the habit of using the correct terminology. ‘PRIORITY’.
Even that old ‘STOP’ Sign has an extra bit of information, ‘STOP’ and Give
Way!
