What is the proper protocol at a four-way stop?

At a four-way stop, the proper protocol is that the first vehicle to arrive at the intersection has the right-of-way. This rule helps establish a fair and orderly way for vehicles to proceed, minimizing confusion and potential accidents. When drivers adhere to the principle that the vehicle that arrives first should go first, it creates a predictable pattern of movement in busy intersections.

In scenarios where vehicles arrive simultaneously, the general rule is that the vehicle on the right has the right-of-way. This secondary rule ensures smooth traffic flow and prevents drivers from having to guess who should proceed, which could lead to delays or collisions. Therefore, it's crucial to be observant and mindful of both the sequence of arrivals and the location of other vehicles when navigating a four-way stop.