Right of Way at Intersections (Uncontrolled)
At an uncontrolled intersection, the vehicle on the right has right of way. If in doubt — slow down.
At intersections without traffic signals or signs, the vehicle approaching from the right has right of way. Vehicles on the main road have priority over side roads. At T-junctions, through-traffic has right of way.
Penalty Under Law
₹500 (Sec. 177). Causing accident at intersection: Sec. 184.
Legal Source
CMVR Rule 3; MV Act Sec. 119
What the Law Says
CMVR Rule 3 establishes that at uncontrolled intersections (no traffic light, no traffic police, no stop/yield sign), a vehicle must give way to vehicles approaching from its right. If two vehicles arrive simultaneously, the vehicle on the right proceeds first. At a T-junction, vehicles on the through road have priority over those entering from the stem.
💡 Why This Rule Exists
Most intersections in Indian cities, towns, and villages are uncontrolled — they have no traffic signals. Without a clear rule for priority, every intersection becomes a conflict point. The "give way to the right" rule provides a universal, predictable convention.
Key Facts
- 1
Give way to the right: the vehicle approaching from your right goes first.
- 2
Main road vs side road: main road traffic has priority.
- 3
T-junction: through road has priority; the joining vehicle must yield.
- 4
If a STOP sign exists: you must stop completely, then proceed only when safe.
- 5
If a GIVE WAY sign exists: slow down and yield, but a full stop is not mandatory if the way is clear.
- 6
Emergency vehicles always have right of way, regardless of any other rule.
⚠️ Common Violations
- ›
Not slowing down when approaching an uncontrolled intersection.
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Assuming you have right of way because your road is "wider."
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Two-wheelers weaving through intersections without yielding to anyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for right of way at intersections (uncontrolled)?
What does the law say about right of way at intersections (uncontrolled)?
Why does right of way at intersections (uncontrolled) matter?
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More Rules of the Road Rules
Always Drive on the Left Side of the Road
All vehicles in India must travel on the left side of the road. Wrong-side driving is a leading cause of head-on collision deaths.
₹500 – first offence
Lane Discipline and Lane Markings
Lane markings are legally binding instructions. A solid yellow centre line means no overtaking. A broken white line permits lane changes when safe.
₹500 under Sec
Rules for Overtaking (Passing) Vehicles
You may overtake only from the right, only when the road ahead is clear, and never in prohibited zones. The vehicle being overtaken must make way.
Illegal overtaking: ₹500 (Sec
Mandatory Use of Indicators and Hand Signals
Every driver must signal their intention to turn, change lanes, or stop — using indicators or prescribed hand signals. Failing to signal before a manoeuvre is a legal violation.
₹500 under Sec