It depends on your position and the road layout-but in most everyday situations, yes, you should give way.

If the vehicle ahead of you, traveling in the same direction, is slowing to turn right at an uncontrolled intersection or driveway, you must give way. They are already occupying the lane and have priority to complete their turn safely.

If the vehicle is coming toward you from the opposite direction and turning right across your path, then they usually must give way to you, unless road signs or local priority rules say otherwise.

There is no single universal rule that applies everywhere. The obligation to give way depends on who is ahead, who is crossing whose path, and local road laws.

This question is trending globally for a few reasons:

  • Driver licensing tests and refresher exams commonly include this scenario.
  • Dashcam and social media videos often show near-misses at uncontrolled intersections, sparking debate.
  • Mixed driving rules across countries cause confusion, especially for travelers, migrants, and new drivers.
  • Navigation apps and ride-share driving put more people in unfamiliar road layouts.

In short, people are encountering this situation often-and getting conflicting answers online.

What’s Confirmed vs What’s Unclear

What’s confirmed

  • At uncontrolled intersections, right-of-way is governed by priority rules, not courtesy.
  • A vehicle already ahead of you and turning right generally has priority to complete that turn.
  • A vehicle turning right across oncoming traffic usually must wait until the road is clear.

What’s unclear or varies by country

  • Whether a right-turning vehicle must move to a median or shoulder before turning.
  • How lane markings, road width, or informal turning bays affect priority.
  • Whether local law prioritizes straight-through traffic in all cases.

These details vary by jurisdiction, which is why blanket answers online are often wrong.

What People Are Getting Wrong

  • “Right turn always gives way.” False. Only when the right turn crosses another vehicle’s path.

  • “If there are no traffic lights, it’s first come, first served.” Incorrect. Priority is based on direction, position, and crossing paths-not arrival time.

  • “If they’re slowing down, I can pass or push through.” Dangerous and often illegal. A vehicle ahead turning right still controls the lane.

Real-World Impact (Everyday Scenarios)

Scenario 1: Same direction You are driving behind a car that slows and signals right into a side street. You must give way. Overtaking or pressuring them risks a collision.

Scenario 2: Opposite direction You are driving straight. An oncoming car wants to turn right across your lane. They must give way to you. You proceed if it’s safe and lawful.

These two scenarios look similar but have opposite right-of-way outcomes.

Benefits, Risks & Limitations

Benefits of giving way when appropriate

  • Prevents rear-end and side-impact collisions
  • Reduces road rage and confusion
  • Aligns with defensive driving principles

Risks if misunderstood

  • Unnecessary stopping can cause rear-end crashes
  • Assuming priority when you don’t have it leads to severe accidents

Limitations

  • Road design, signage, and local law can override general rules
  • Poor signaling by other drivers increases uncertainty

What to Watch Next

  • Turn indicators and brake lights-they clarify intent.
  • Lane markings or painted turn bays-they often signal priority.
  • Local give-way or priority signs, even without traffic lights.

What You Can Ignore Safely

  • Social media claims that there is “one global rule”
  • Aggressive driving norms that pressure you to rush
  • Advice that ignores direction of travel

Do I always stop if a car is turning right? No. Only if they are ahead of you or already occupying your lane.

What if both cars reach the intersection at the same time? Priority still depends on direction and crossing paths, not timing.

What if I’m unsure? Slow down and be cautious. Yielding briefly is safer than assuming priority.