USAREUR Practice Exam

In traffic rules, which factor primarily determines which vehicle has the right-of-way?

1. Vehicle size

2. Traffic signs or signals

3. Vehicle speed

4. Time of day

The correct answer is: Traffic signs or signals

The right-of-way in traffic rules is primarily determined by traffic signs or signals. These signs and signals are established to provide clear guidance to drivers, indicating who must yield and who has priority on the road. For instance, stop signs instruct vehicles to come to a complete halt and yield to cross traffic, while traffic lights regulate the flow of vehicles at intersections, giving clear instructions regarding when to proceed or stop. Traffic signs and signals are designed to promote safety, reduce confusion among road users, and help manage the movement of vehicles and pedestrians effectively. Their established norms and legal requirements help maintain order on the roads, significantly impacting the right-of-way over other factors such as vehicle size, speed, or time of day, which may influence but do not solely determine right-of-way.