Priority is the established rule determining which road user gets to move first when paths cross at intersections, merges, or pedestrian crossings. Traffic engineers assign priority using signs, signals, or default road rules to minimize collisions and manage flow. Transit priority systems can also actively alter traffic signals to give buses or light rail an advantage over private cars.
Heard on the job
The new intersection design gives absolute priority to the bus rapid transit lane.
Also heard as
- right of way
Related terms
Yield line
A pavement marking showing drivers exactly where to wait when giving way to conflicting traffic.
Stop sign
A regulatory traffic control device that requires drivers to bring their vehicles to a complete halt.
Signal timing
The calculated distribution of green, yellow, and red phases at an intersection.