Delaware Driver Education State Practice Test

When a driver is turning left, who has the right of way?

1. The vehicle turning right.

2. The oncoming traffic.

3. The driver turning left.

4. Traffic already in the intersection.

The correct answer is: The oncoming traffic.

When a driver is turning left at an intersection, the rule is that oncoming traffic generally has the right of way. This means that vehicles traveling straight in the opposite direction have priority over the turning vehicle. A driver turning left must yield to these oncoming vehicles to avoid collisions and ensure safe passage through the intersection. This rule is designed to maintain order and safety on the roads, as left turns can often create conflict points with oncoming traffic. The other options do not grant right of way in this situation: vehicles turning right are typically not a factor in the left turn scenario unless their movement intersects with the left turn path; drivers turning left must always yield to oncoming traffic moving straight; and vehicles that are already in the intersection clear the way for left turns as they have established precedence. Understanding this rule helps drivers navigate intersections safely and legally.