What is the rule for vehicles at a four-way stop?

At a four-way stop, the established rule is that the vehicle that comes to a complete stop first has the right of way and is permitted to go first. This ensures an orderly flow of traffic and promotes safety at intersections where visibility may be limited and multiple vehicles converge simultaneously.

The sequence of stopping is crucial; it is essential for drivers to be aware of not just their own stopping time but also the actions of others approaching the intersection. This right-of-way rule is fundamental for preventing confusion among drivers and reducing the risk of accidents.

In contrast, the idea of the vehicle that stops last going first may lead to chaotic and dangerous driving behaviors, as it could result in multiple vehicles attempting to move into the intersection simultaneously. Yielding to a vehicle on the left does not apply universally at a four-way stop, as the right-of-way is determined primarily by the order of stopping. Lastly, simply going as soon as a gap is seen can lead to misunderstandings about who has the right of way and can create unsafe situations when other vehicles are still approaching the stop.