Understanding Right-of-Way at Four-Way Stops

When it comes to driving, especially as a future bus driver in Ontario, understanding the rules of the road is essential—and you know what? One of the most commonly misunderstood traffic rules involves right-of-way, particularly at four-way stops. Let’s break this down and make it easy to digest.

So, picture this: you're approaching an intersection and see stop signs at every corner. All around you, cars are waiting patiently. Who gets to go first? Is it the fastest car? The biggest truck? Or, maybe the one that turns left? Nope! The answer is much simpler—and safer.

The Role of the First Vehicle to Stop At a four-way stop, right-of-way goes to the first vehicle to come to a complete stop. That means if you arrive at the intersection before anyone else and you come to a full stop—honk your horn, it’s your turn! This rule is all about making traffic flow smoothly and keeping everyone safe.

Why Speed Isn't a Factor Let’s clear one thing up right off the bat: just because a vehicle is speeding doesn’t mean it has the right-of-way. Option A isn’t just incorrect; it’s also risky! Imagine someone zipping through an intersection thinking their speed guarantees priority—yikes! That’s a surefire way to cause a fender-bender.

And speaking of size, guess what? Just because a vehicle is bigger doesn’t mean it gets preferential treatment either. Whether you’re in a mighty bus or a tiny sedan, it’s the stopping that counts. Option B? No way, José!

Turning Left? Watch Out! Now, let’s talk about vehicles turning left at a four-way stop, since that can get a bit tricky. You may wonder, “What about those turning left? Don’t they have any rights?” The answer is they must yield to oncoming traffic, meaning they can only go when it’s safe. So, if a car is coming straight at you, no left turns allowed! That’s right—left-turning vehicles are a no-no unless the coast is clear.

So, if you're gearing up for the Ontario Bus Driver Knowledge Test, keep this in mind: the right answer is C—the first vehicle to come to a complete stop holds the coveted right-of-way. This key piece of knowledge not only helps prevent accidents but also promotes a considerate driving culture.

Putting It All Together When you're preparing for the road ahead, remember the importance of these basic rules. They seem simple, but in the hustle and bustle of driving, they can make all the difference. Driving isn't just about you; it’s about everyone sharing the road. So next time you approach an intersection with stop signs, think back to these guidelines and keep it safe out there!

Now that you've got a handle on right-of-way rules, you're one step closer to your goal of becoming a bus driver in Ontario. It’s all about patience and awareness—the more you know, the better you’ll navigate those busy streets.