right of way

right of way in land and air traffic and in sea navigation, rules that determine precedence in the use of traffic lanes. The rules are framed in the simplest possible terms and with nearly absolute uniformity in order to minimize the possibility of collisions. In land traffic, railroad trains, military vehicles in convoy, government vehicles (e.g., mail trucks), and emergency vehicles have the right of way over ordinary private vehicles. Rules of sea and air navigation are largely governed by international conventions and law. The term "right of way" is also applied to an easement in gross (e.g., that of a railroad). See air, law of the ; maritime law .

right of way (also right-of-way) • n. 1. the legal right, established by usage or grant, to pass along a specific route through grounds or property belonging to another. ∎  a path or thoroughfare subject to such a right. 2. the legal right of a pedestrian, rider, or driver to proceed with precedence over other road users at a particular point: he waves on other drivers, even when it's not their right of way. ∎  the right of a ship, boat, or aircraft to proceed with precedence over others in a particular situation. 3. the right to build and operate a railroad line, road, or utility on land belonging to another. ∎  the land on which a railroad line, road, or utility is built.

Right of Way, The, novel by Gilbert Parker⧫.