At an intersection without traffic lights, who has the right of way?

In North Carolina, at an intersection without traffic lights, pedestrians generally have the right of way. This means that if there is a person walking at or near an intersection, vehicles must yield to them, allowing them to cross safely. This rule underscores the importance of protecting pedestrians and promoting safety, especially since the potential for serious injury is significant in a vehicle-pedestrian collision.

Understanding that pedestrians are prioritized in such situations helps drivers remain vigilant and cautious when approaching intersections. This focus on pedestrian safety is particularly crucial in urban areas where pedestrian traffic is more common.

Contrary to this, vehicles approaching from the left, those that arrive first, and those traveling straight do not necessarily have the right of way unless specific circumstances apply or there are additional traffic controls. The overarching rule in these scenarios is to always yield to pedestrians.