Who has the right of way at a four-way stop when multiple drivers arrive?

At a four-way stop, the rule of thumb is that the first driver to stop at the intersection is the first one who is allowed to go. This system ensures a clear and orderly approach to navigating the intersection, minimizing confusion and the risk of accidents. When multiple vehicles approach simultaneously, it simplifies decision-making and promotes safety by establishing a fair rule that all drivers can follow.

The reason the other options are less effective is that they may lead to misinterpretation of who should proceed, potentially causing confusion among drivers. For instance, simply stepping on the gas first does not necessarily indicate that a vehicle has stopped at the correct place to yield the right of way. Likewise, determining who arrived last or relying on the positioning of drivers without the stopping rule could result in conflicts and dangerous situations at the intersection.