Missouri’s traffic rules might be confusing when it comes to figuring out who has the right of way. Many drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists don’t think about it until they face a tough situation, which can be frustrating and dangerous. 

Let’s look at what Missouri’s right-of-way rules say, as they involve more than just being polite at a stop sign. 

What Exactly is the Right of Way?

Right of way refers to the legal right that a person or vehicle has to go before others. These rules are in place to keep traffic moving smoothly and, most importantly, to prevent accidents. 

They apply to vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians. Missouri, like all other states, has its own specific rules about right-of-way laws. If you’re ever at a four-way stop and you’re not sure if it’s your turn to go, it’s safest to yield. It’s better to be careful than to risk an accident.

Intersections

Confusion about who has the right of way usually happens at intersections. In Missouri, at intersections without signals or signs, the vehicle on the left must yield to the one on the right. 

If two vehicles arrive at an intersection at the same time, the one on the left should give way. If you are unsure, it’s best to let the other driver go first. 

For roundabouts, the cars inside the roundabout have the right of way. If you’re approaching a roundabout, slow down and wait for your turn.

Pedestrians

In Missouri, pedestrians have the right of way when they cross at marked crosswalks or intersections. Pedestrians can cross elsewhere, but they have to make sure it’s safe because cars are not required to stop.

Pedestrians also can’t suddenly step into traffic, even at a crosswalk. They need to give drivers enough time to react and stop safely. It’s also good to know that jaywalking is not just impolite; it’s against the law. 

On the other hand, cyclists are classified as vehicles under Missouri law. They must follow the same rules as motor vehicles, including yielding when necessary.

Emergency Vehicles

When you hear sirens while driving, it’s important to know what to do. In Missouri, you must move to the right and stop when an emergency vehicle like an ambulance or fire truck approaches with flashing lights and sirens. 

This isn’t just a courtesy; it’s the law. If you’re in the middle of an intersection when an emergency vehicle is coming, you should drive through the intersection and then pull over. Stopping in the middle of the road is risky and should be avoided.

School Buses

In Missouri, when a school bus stops with its red lights flashing, all traffic must stop in both directions. You can’t just drive past because you’re in a hurry. Children’s safety is a serious matter. 

The only exception is if you’re on the other side of a divided highway. In that case, the law doesn’t require you to stop. However, it’s better to prioritize safety when it comes to children and school buses.

Right of Way for Cyclists

Cyclists and Missouri’s right-of-way laws have an interesting dynamic. They must follow the same rules as vehicles, but they are also more at risk. Missouri requires drivers to give cyclists at least three feet of space when passing them. 

If you’re ever unsure who has the right of way between a car and a bike, it’s generally safer to let the cyclist go first. For cyclists, the rules are not entirely in their favor either. They have to follow traffic signals, come to a full stop at stop signs, and yield when necessary. 

Cyclists are advised to not take shortcuts or weave between cars at traffic lights because this significantly raises the risk of an accident.