Yielding the right of way to pedestrians, cyclists and other vehicles is a traffic law that everyone must follow in Wisconsin. If you fail to do so, your violation can result in a license suspension or lead to a criminal charge.
As a driver, protecting your driving privileges is crucial. By understanding the weight of a Failure to Yield ticket, you can take immediate action to safeguard your license.
Understanding the right-of-way law in Wisconsin
The right-of-way rule aims to lessen accidents on the road and promote free-flowing traffic. As a driver, you must follow these guidelines:
- Yielding to oncoming traffic when turning to an alleyway or entering a U-turn, roundabout or highway
- Yielding to a car in the right lane at an intersection
- Yielding to pedestrians and cyclists crossing the street
- Yielding to emergency vehicles on the road
Failing to yield the right of way can result in the accumulation of demerit points.
Receiving demerit points
In Wisconsin, the Department of Transportation has a 12-point demerit system that tracks your traffic violations. Disobeying the right-of-way rule is equivalent to four points, a significant portion of your record.
A conviction requires you to complete a Right-of-Way course within six months. Failure to complete the course by the deadline can result in a license suspension of up to five years.
Challenging your traffic ticket
Receiving a ticket for failing to yield can be a stressful experience, especially if you believe that you followed the law. The penalties you may face can severely impact your driving privileges.
You have the option to challenge the ticket by pleading not guilty and appearing in court for trial. Navigating the process may require assistance from an attorney.
