Understanding Right of Way Rules – K53 Learner’s Guide

Right‑of‑way confusion is one of the most common reasons learners fail the K53 test. In this guide, we’ll break down the rules with clear examples and practical scenarios so you can approach intersections with confidence.

1. Four‑Way Stop Intersections

At a four‑way stop (all directions have stop signs), the rules are simple:

• First to stop, first to go. The vehicle that arrives and stops first has the right of way.
• If two vehicles stop at the same time, the one on the right has priority.
• If you’re turning left and the vehicle opposite is going straight, the straight‑going vehicle goes first.

2. T‑Junctions (Without Signs)

At a T‑junction where there are no stop or yield signs, the rule is:

• Traffic on the terminating road (the road that ends) must give way to traffic on the continuing road.
• If you’re turning into the side road, you must yield to oncoming vehicles and pedestrians.

3. Traffic Circles (Roundabouts)

Traffic circles are common in South Africa. Remember these three rules:

• Give way to traffic already in the circle. Vehicles inside have right of way.
• Signal correctly:
  • First exit (left turn): signal left as you enter.
  • Straight ahead: no signal on entry, signal left just before your exit.
  • Right turn or U‑turn: signal right on entry, then left before your exit.
• Watch for cyclists and pedestrians – they may be using the circle too.

4. Uncontrolled Intersections

At an intersection with no signs or traffic lights, the general rule is:

• Yield to traffic approaching from your right.
• If you’re turning, you must also give way to oncoming vehicles going straight.

Always slow down and be ready to stop, even if you think you have right of way.

5. Pedestrian Crossings

Pedestrians always have priority on marked crossings. You must stop if a pedestrian is on or about to step onto the crossing. At unmarked crossings (like at intersections without signals), you should give way if a pedestrian is already crossing.

Quick Reference Table

Situation	Who has right of way?
4‑way stop – same time	Vehicle on your right
4‑way stop – different times	First to stop
T‑junction (no signs)	Traffic on the continuing road
Traffic circle	Traffic already inside
Uncontrolled intersection	Traffic from your right
Pedestrian crossing (marked)	Pedestrians

6. Special Cases

Emergency vehicles

Always give way to emergency vehicles with flashing lights and sirens. Pull over to the side and stop until they’ve passed.

Railway crossings

Trains always have right of way. Stop at the markings and only proceed when safe.

Common K53 Test Questions on Right of Way

The official K53 learner’s test often includes questions like:

• “At a four‑way stop, two cars arrive at the same time. Who goes first?”
• “You want to turn right at a T‑junction. Do you have to give way?”
• “When entering a traffic circle, who must give way?”

Now that you know the rules, test yourself with our Road Rules Practice Test – it has 30 questions covering all these situations.