Right of Way Rules: Who Goes First on the Road in Milwaukee?

Understanding right-of-way rules is crucial for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians to navigate Milwaukee’s roads safely. Right-of-way laws determine who has the legal authority to proceed first in various traffic situations. Failure to follow these rules can lead to accidents, traffic violations, and even fines.

This guide explains Milwaukee’s right-of-way rules, including intersections, pedestrian crossings, roundabouts, and emergency vehicles.

1. Intersections: Who Has the Right of Way?

Uncontrolled Intersections

At an intersection without stop signs, yield signs, or traffic signals, Wisconsin law requires drivers to yield to the vehicle on their right. If two vehicles arrive simultaneously, the driver on the left must allow the driver on the right to proceed first.

Four-Way Stops

When approaching a four-way stop, the first driver to arrive has the right of way. If two vehicles reach the stop sign at the same time, the driver on the right goes first.

Traffic Signals

Green Light: Drivers can proceed, but must yield to pedestrians and vehicles already in the intersection.
Yellow Light: A yellow signal means caution; drivers should stop if it is safe to do so.
Red Light: Drivers must stop completely. Right turns on red are permitted unless otherwise posted, but they must yield to pedestrians and other traffic.

Left Turns at an Intersection

When making a left turn, drivers must yield to oncoming traffic unless they have a green arrow. If turning at a standard green light, they must wait for a safe gap before proceeding.

2. Pedestrian Right of Way

Milwaukee prioritizes pedestrian safety, and drivers must yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks.

Crosswalk Laws

Pedestrians in crosswalks have the right of way, even if there are no traffic signals.
If a pedestrian is waiting to cross at an unmarked crosswalk (typically at an intersection), drivers should slow down and prepare to yield.
Turning vehicles must always yield to pedestrians crossing the street.

Pedestrian Responsibilities

Pedestrians should cross only at designated crosswalks or intersections.
Jaywalking is not recommended and can lead to citations.
When crossing at a signalized intersection, pedestrians should obey walk signals.

3. Roundabout Right of Way

Milwaukee has introduced more roundabouts to improve traffic flow and reduce accidents.

Roundabout Rules

Vehicles inside the roundabout have the right of way.
Drivers entering the roundabout must yield to traffic already circulating.
Stay in the correct lane and signal when exiting.
Pedestrians and cyclists crossing at designated crosswalks have the right of way.

4. Right of Way at Driveways and Alleys

Milwaukee has numerous alleys and driveways, particularly in residential and commercial areas.

When Exiting a Driveway or Alley

Vehicles exiting a driveway, alley, or parking lot must yield to traffic on the road.
Pedestrians walking on sidewalks always have the right of way over vehicles exiting driveways.

5. Emergency Vehicles: Move Over Law

Emergency vehicles, including police, fire trucks, and ambulances, have the right of way when their lights and sirens are active.

What Drivers Should Do

Pull over to the right side of the road and stop when an emergency vehicle approaches.
Do not block intersections.
If you are in an intersection, continue through and pull over safely.
When approaching a stopped emergency vehicle with flashing lights, Wisconsin’s “Move Over Law” requires drivers to switch lanes or slow down if switching lanes is not possible.

Failure to yield to emergency vehicles can result in heavy fines and points on your driving record.

6. School Buses and Right of Way

Wisconsin law requires drivers to stop when a school bus extends its stop sign and activates flashing red lights.

When to Stop for a School Bus

On a two-lane road, drivers in both directions must stop.
On a multi-lane road without a median, all traffic must stop.
On a divided highway, only drivers traveling in the same direction as the bus must stop.

Passing a stopped school bus illegally can result in fines of up to $300 for a first offense.

7. Bicyclists and Right of Way

Bicyclists in Milwaukee are treated as vehicles and must follow traffic rules.

When to Yield to Bicyclists

Vehicles must yield to bicyclists in bike lanes when turning across their path.
Bicyclists have the right of way at intersections if they are proceeding straight.
Motorists must leave at least three feet of space when passing a bicycle.

Bicyclists are also responsible for following traffic signals and stopping at stop signs.

8. Right of Way Violations and Penalties

Failing to follow right-of-way laws can lead to accidents, injuries, and legal consequences.

Common Violations

Failing to yield at stop signs or traffic signals.
Not giving the right of way to pedestrians.
Cutting off oncoming traffic while making a left turn.
Not yielding when merging or entering a roundabout.

Penalties for Right of Way Violations

Fines ranging from $100 to $500.
Points added to your driving record.
License suspension for repeat offenses.
Higher insurance rates due to violations.

Conclusion

Right-of-way rules help keep Milwaukee’s roads safe for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. Knowing when to yield, stop, or proceed can prevent accidents and avoid costly fines. Whether at intersections, roundabouts, or crosswalks, understanding these traffic laws ensures safer travel for everyone.

Disclaimer – Our editorial team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and eliminate any potential misinformation. We are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity in our content.