What does "yielding the right of way" mean?

Yielding the right of way refers to the practice of allowing another driver or pedestrian to proceed before you in a traffic situation. This is a crucial concept in defensive driving as it promotes safety and helps prevent accidents. When you yield, you are essentially recognizing that another road user has the priority to continue their movement, whether it be through an intersection, during merging, or when pedestrians are crossing. This practice enhances mutual respect among drivers and ensures smoother traffic flow.

The concept is important in various driving situations, such as when approaching a four-way stop, merging into traffic, or when there are pedestrians at crosswalks. Understanding and properly executing the act of yielding can significantly reduce the chances of collisions and improve overall road safety.