What is the proper procedure for a four-way stop?

At a four-way stop, the fundamental rule governing right-of-way is that the first vehicle to arrive at the intersection has the right of way. This means that the driver who reaches the stop line first is permitted to proceed first, allowing for a smooth flow of traffic and reducing the potential for confusion or accidents.

This procedure encourages driver attentiveness and timely decision-making, as it relies on drivers to correctly assess their order of arrival. All drivers should be prepared to yield to any vehicles that arrived before them if they are at the intersection simultaneously, ensuring safe interactions.

This system effectively eliminates ambiguity over right-of-way at busy intersections, fostering safer driving practices.