California Vehicle Code 21800(a) governs right-of-way at uncontrolled intersections — those without traffic signals or stop signs. The rule is straightforward: if another vehicle has already entered the intersection from a different road, you must yield to it. At intersections where two vehicles arrive simultaneously, the vehicle on the left must yield to the vehicle on its right. Failure to yield carries 1 DMV point and a base fine of $238.
The driver of a vehicle approaching an intersection shall yield the right-of-way to any vehicle which has entered the intersection from a different highway.
(b)
When two vehicles enter an intersection from different highways at the same time, the driver of the vehicle on the left shall yield the right-of-way to the vehicle on his or her immediate right, except that the driver of the vehicle on the terminating highway shall yield the right-of-way to the vehicle on the continuing highway.
(c)
When two vehicles enter an intersection from different highways at the same time and the intersection is controlled from all directions by stop signs, the driver of the vehicle on the left shall yield the right-of-way to the vehicle on his or her immediate right.
Amended by Stats. 1963, Ch. 1698. Effective September 20, 1963.
Fine & Penalty Amounts
Estimated totals include all mandatory state and county penalty assessments. Actual amounts vary by county court.
Violation Range
Est. Total with Assessments
Notes
Failure to yield at intersection
~$490
Standard 1-point moving violation fine schedule.
The base fine of $238 applies to a standard VC 21800(a) infraction. After California penalty assessments, the total typically reaches approximately $490, varying by county.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions drivers search for after receiving this citation.
California Vehicle Code 21800(a) requires drivers approaching an uncontrolled intersection — one with no signal or stop sign — to yield to any vehicle that has already entered the intersection from another road. If two vehicles arrive simultaneously, the driver on the left must yield to the driver on the right.
Yes. A conviction adds 1 point to your California DMV driving record for 36 months from the violation date.
The base fine is $238. After California's mandatory penalty assessments, the total typically reaches approximately $490. The exact amount varies by county.
Yes. Defenses include arguing that you had already entered the intersection first, that the other vehicle did not have right-of-way under the circumstances, or challenging the officer's vantage point. A Trial by Written Declaration lets you contest without appearing in court.
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