Right-of-Way Rules on Minnesota County Roads

Minnesota Statute 169.20 governs right-of-way at intersections involving county roads. The rules prioritize based on road hierarchy and position.

Key Rules

1. County Road vs. Town/Private Road

Driver on the county road has right-of-way over a driver entering from a town road or private road/driveway. The county road is the through highway.

2. County Road vs. County Road (Uncontrolled Intersection)

At an intersection of two county roads without signs or signals: the driver on the left yields to the driver on the right (standard "yield to right" rule).

3. All-Way Stop or Signalized Intersections

Standard rules apply: first to stop proceeds first; right-hand rule if simultaneous. Traffic signals override.

4. County Road vs. State/US Highway

State/US highways generally have priority. Yield signs are typically posted for county road approaches.

Practical Guidance

  • County roads are marked with blue pentagon signs (e.g., "COUNTY 12")
  • Town roads: green rectangular signs with name
  • Private drives: often unmarked or "Private Road" signs
  • When in doubt: slow, prepare to stop, make eye contact

Statutory Reference

Minn. Stat. § 169.20 Subd. 3(a): "The driver of a vehicle approaching an intersection shall yield the right-of-way to a vehicle which has entered the intersection from a different highway." Subd. 3(b): "When two vehicles enter an intersection from different highways at approximately the same time, the driver of the vehicle on the left shall yield the right-of-way to the vehicle on the right."

Note: Local ordinances may modify. Always obey posted signs.

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