California Traffic Laws & Right-of-Way

On a two-lane undivided road, drivers approaching from both directions must stop when a school bus flashes red lights and extends its stop arm. Drivers often think only those behind the bus must stop, but oncoming traffic must stop too unless a raised median or barrier divides the road.

California permits a right turn on red after coming to a complete stop, provided no 'No Turn on Red' sign is posted and you yield to pedestrians and cross traffic. The idea that it is banned statewide is a common misconception, since the default is that it is allowed unless prohibited.

On a two-lane undivided road, drivers approaching from both directions must stop when a school bus flashes red lights and extends its stop arm. A diagram for this topic isn't available yet — the worked example below walks the same reasoning step by step.

• !The idea that it is banned statewide is a common misconception, since the default is that it is allowed unless prohibited.
• !Assuming three statewide is wrong because the requirement varies by location, and a solo driver cannot use it merely by speeding.
• !Assuming priority because you are on the bigger road is a common and dangerous error.

Answer each from memory — you'll see instantly whether you're right and why.

Run a focused 10-question mini-mock on California Traffic Laws & Right-of-Way and see it stick.