Priority from the right: the rule and its exceptions
At a junction with no signs, give way markings or traffic lights, traffic from the right goes first. This is how the rule works, and where it does not apply.
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The rule
At a junction you give way to drivers coming from your right. This is article 15 of the RVV 1990.
The rule only applies when nothing else settles priority. A traffic controller, traffic lights, priority signs and give way markings (shark’s teeth) come first. After an end of priority road sign, the normal rule applies again at the next junction without signs.
Who counts as a driver?
Every road user except a pedestrian. That includes cyclists, moped riders, horse riders and people driving a mobility vehicle. If a cyclist comes from your right, the cyclist goes first. The type of vehicle makes no difference.
The exceptions
- Trams: you always let a tram go first, whichever direction it comes from.
- Unpaved roads: a driver coming from an unpaved road gives way to traffic on the paved road.
- Exits and woonerven: when you leave a driveway, car park exit or a residential zone (erf), you give way to all traffic on the road.
How to apply it
- First check for signs, give way markings or traffic lights.
- If there are none, check for a tram. A tram goes first.
- Then give way to everyone coming from your right.
- Someone coming from your left must give way to you. Carry on, but watch that they actually do.
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