Delaware Driver Education State Practice Test

In a situation where two vehicles arrive at an intersection simultaneously, who has the right of way?

1. The vehicle on the left

2. The vehicle that is larger

3. The vehicle that arrived first

4. The vehicle that is traveling faster

The correct answer is: The vehicle that arrived first

When two vehicles arrive at an intersection simultaneously, the right of way rule applies to the vehicle that arrived first. This is a fundamental concept in traffic laws designed to help prevent accidents and ensure a smooth flow of traffic. The rationale behind this rule is that the vehicle that has been at the intersection for the least amount of time is often in a better position to assess the situation and make decisions about proceeding safely. This reduces uncertainty and improves communication between drivers as they navigate the intersection. Choosing options based on size or speed does not necessarily contribute to safe driving practices. Size does not confer priority; larger vehicles, like trucks or buses, may have a greater mass but do not have a right of way solely based on their size. Similarly, a vehicle that is traveling faster does not have the right of way; this option could actually lead to hazardous situations, as a faster-moving vehicle may be harder to stop or control. Designing traffic rules to prioritize the order of arrival promotes safety and accountability among drivers.