Vikeplikt

Vikeplikt is the obligation to yield to other road users in traffic. It is a fundamental rule in Nordic traffic regulations, governing when a driver must let others pass before proceeding. The obligation is typically signaled by a give-way sign, but it also applies at intersections and merging situations where the law requires giving way even in the absence of signage.

When a driver encounters a give-way sign, they must slow down and be prepared to stop if necessary to avoid collisions, proceeding only when it is safe to do so. At uncontrolled intersections, vikeplikt is applied through the country’s general priority system, such as the priority to the right in some contexts, or other locally defined rules. In roundabouts, entering traffic must yield to vehicles already circulating, so vehicles inside the roundabout have priority. In merging situations, drivers joining a road or highway must yield to through traffic already on that road.

Violations of vikeplikt can lead to penalties, including fines and, in more serious cases, points on the driving license or other sanctions, particularly if a failure to yield results in an accident. The aim of vikeplikt is to minimize conflicts at junctions and to promote predictable and safe traffic flow by clarifying who must wait in potentially conflicting situations.