What does the term "right-of-way" mean?

The term "right-of-way" refers to the legal right of one vehicle or pedestrian to proceed in front of another in traffic situations. This concept is crucial for ensuring safety on the roads, as it establishes which party has priority in various driving scenarios, particularly at intersections, crosswalks, and merging areas. Understanding right-of-way rules helps drivers and pedestrians make informed decisions, reducing the risk of accidents and promoting smoother traffic flow. For instance, vehicles must yield to pedestrians at crosswalks, and when merging into traffic, the vehicle already on the road typically has the right-of-way. This principle is a fundamental aspect of traffic laws designed to protect all users of the road and maintain order.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of right-of-way. While speed limits are important for safe driving, they relate to how fast one can travel rather than priority in traffic situations. The time it takes to yield is a procedural aspect of right-of-way but does not define what it is. The ability to pass another vehicle safely is a separate concern involving the dynamics of overtaking on the road, not the legal priority to proceed.