The Right of Way at an Uncontrolled Intersection
November 2025
In Wisconsin, a safety statute provides that when two vehicles approach or enter an intersection at approximately the same time the operator of the vehicle on the left should yield to to the vehicle on the right. The statute does not make the right of way dependent on whether a vehicle reaches or begins into the intersection first. The statute is set out this way so one driver does not speed up and in an attempt to reach the intersection first so as to claim the right of way. This also serves to make sure that the vehicle on the left should exercise greater caution as it reaches or begins into the intersection.
An Uncontrolled Intersection is defined as an intersection that is not controlled by stop signs, yield signs, traffic signals or a traffic officer. Uncontrolled intersections are common in residential neighborhoods, rural areas and on less-traveled roads.
At Herrick & Hart, we have been on the side of the injured since 1951. We have dealt with cases involving uncontrolled intersections. Let us put our experience to work for you.