Understanding Right-of-Way at Four-Way Stops: A Guide with NYS DMV and Colonie Police Insights
When you approach a four-way stop, do you know who has the right of way? It’s a question that stumps many drivers, even seasoned ones. A recent post by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NYS DMV) on X, featuring a #traffictips video with Lt. Thomas Breslin of the Colonie Police, aims to clear up the confusion. In this article, we’ll dive into the rules of four-way stops, explore the context of the NYS DMV’s guidance, and provide actionable tips to help you navigate intersections safely. Let’s get started!
What Is a Four-Way Stop, and Why Does It Matter?
A four-way stop is an intersection where all directions—north, south, east, and west—are controlled by stop signs. These intersections are common in both urban and rural areas.
Four-way stops are designed to manage traffic flow where a traffic light isn’t necessary, but they can be tricky if drivers don’t understand the rules. Misjudging who has the right of way can lead to confusion, delays, or even accidents. That’s why the NYS DMV’s guidance is so valuable—it provides clarity for drivers looking to stay safe and avoid violations.
NYS DMV’s Right-of-Way Rule at Four-Way Stops
In their April 3, 2025, X post, the NYS DMV shared a #traffictips video featuring Lt. Thomas Breslin of the Colonie Police Department. The post, which includes a link to the video, addresses a key question: Who has the right of way at a four-way stop?
According to the NYS DMV’s official guidelines in Chapter 5: Intersections and Turns, the rules are straightforward but require attention:
First to Arrive, First to Go: The driver who arrives at the intersection first has the right of way. If you get to the stop sign before others, you can proceed after coming to a complete stop.
Yield to the Right: If two or more drivers arrive at the same time, the driver on the left must yield to the driver on the right. For example, if you’re facing north and another driver facing east arrives simultaneously, the driver facing east (on your right) has the right of way.
Straight Before Turns: If two drivers arrive at the same time and are facing each other, the driver going straight has the right of way over the driver turning.
These rules ensure a smooth flow of traffic and reduce the risk of collisions. The NYS DMV’s video, featuring Lt. Breslin, likely demonstrates these scenarios in action, providing a visual guide for drivers in New York State.
The Context: Colonie Police and Lt. Thomas Breslin
The NYS DMV collaborated with the Colonie Police Department for this #traffictips video, specifically featuring Lt. Thomas Breslin. Colonie, a town in Albany County, NY, is known for its proactive community policing efforts. However, Lt. Breslin’s involvement adds a layer of complexity to the story.
According to a 2015 Times Union article, Thomas Breslin was promoted to sergeant despite a controversial incident earlier that year. Breslin, then a patrol officer, was filmed stomping on the handcuffed hands of a suspect, an action that led to disciplinary measures, including mandatory training. The suspect in that case was charged with obstructing governmental administration, criminal trespass, and resisting arrest, with a trial set for March 2016. Despite the incident, Breslin—son of a retired Colonie police lieutenant—went on to build a career spanning nearly a decade in investigations, as a firearms instructor, and as an assistant team leader on the Special Services team.
While Breslin’s past raises questions about his role as a public-facing figure in a DMV safety video, his experience as a law enforcement officer in Colonie likely provides valuable on-the-ground insight into traffic enforcement and safety.
Why Right-of-Way Rules Are Critical for Safe Driving
Understanding right-of-way rules isn’t just about passing your road test—it’s about keeping everyone on the road safe. The NYS DMV’s focus on four-way stops highlights a broader mission to reduce accidents and improve driver education. In New York State, intersections are a common site for collisions, often due to misunderstandings about who should proceed.
The rural intersection shown in the NYS DMV’s X post, with its open fields and sparse traffic, might seem low-risk. But even in such settings, a momentary lapse in judgment can lead to serious consequences. For example, failing to yield to an emergency vehicle—like a fire truck or ambulance, which has the right of way when using sirens and lights—can delay critical response times. The NYS DMV’s guidelines emphasize that drivers must always yield to authorized emergency vehicles, a rule that applies at four-way stops and beyond.
Tips for Navigating Four-Way Stops Like a Pro
To help you master four-way stops, here are some practical tips based on the NYS DMV’s guidance and general best practices:
- Come to a Complete Stop: Always stop fully at the stop sign, even if no other cars are visible. Rolling stops are illegal and unsafe.
- Assess the Situation: Look in all directions to see who arrived first. If you’re unsure, make eye contact with other drivers to communicate intent.
- Follow the “Yield to the Right” Rule: If you arrive at the same time as another driver, the person on the right goes first.
- Be Patient: Don’t rush through the intersection. If there’s confusion, it’s better to wait a moment than to risk a collision.
- Watch for Pedestrians and Cyclists: Four-way stops often have crosswalks, so be mindful of non-motorized traffic.
- Stay Calm in High-Pressure Situations: If another driver waves you through, proceed cautiously but confidently.
By following these tips, you’ll not only stay compliant with New York State laws but also contribute to safer roads for everyone.
The Bigger Picture: NYS DMV’s Role in Driver Education
The NYS DMV’s #traffictips series, including this four-way stop video, is part of a broader effort to educate drivers and reduce traffic violations. However, the X thread also reveals some frustrations with the DMV’s services. Replies to the post highlight issues like delays in Real ID application reviews and difficulties scheduling road tests, with users reporting errors like “This CID has exceeded the maximum number of appointments.” These complaints suggest that while the DMV is working to improve driver education, there are still operational challenges to address.
Drive Smart, Stay Safe
Navigating a four-way stop doesn’t have to be stressful. Thanks to the NYS DMV’s clear guidelines and their collaboration with the Colonie Police, drivers have the tools they need to make safe decisions at intersections. The rule to remember? When in doubt, yield to the driver on your right. And if you’re still unsure, the NYS DMV’s #traffictips video with Lt. Thomas Breslin is a great resource to check out.
As you hit the road, keep these right-of-way rules in mind, and don’t hesitate to brush up on other traffic laws—like those for U-turns or emergency vehicles—available on the NYS DMV’s website. Safe driving starts with knowledge, and with resources like these, you’re well on your way to becoming a more confident driver.
Final Thoughts
Have you encountered a tricky four-way stop situation? Share your experience in the comments below! And if you found this guide helpful, don’t forget to share it with your friends and follow us for more driving tips and updates. For more information on New York State traffic laws, visit the NYS DMV website.
