Stopping at a stop sign and yielding before entering an intersection are different duties. A CVC 21802(a) citation concerns yielding after a stop. The traffic pattern and other vehicles’ positions can matter when reviewing what happened.

What does CVC 21802(a) mean?

After stopping as required, a driver must yield to vehicles approaching from another highway when they are close enough to pose an immediate hazard, and wait until proceeding is reasonably safe. Section 21802(c) says this section does not apply where every approach to the intersection has a stop sign.

Check whether your citation concerns this rule, a failure to stop under CVC 22450(a), or another right-of-way provision. They should not be treated as interchangeable.

Details that help explain the incident

• The citation and court notice, including the response deadline.
• A diagram identifying your approach, intended movement, and the other vehicle’s direction.
• Which approaches had stop signs or other traffic controls.
• Available footage, photographs, or witness information.
• What you actually observed about distance, visibility, and movement, without guessing missing details.

If an accident was involved, mention that when requesting a quote. Preserve existing evidence and avoid putting private case information into public comments or reviews.

Penalties and your response

Read your court notice for the amount due and available response options. Do not assume that an old fine figure or a fixed insurance-increase estimate applies to your circumstances. The precise violation, record, and court disposition matter.

Common questions

Can I receive a yielding ticket even if I stopped?

Yes. A stop does not by itself establish that entering the intersection complied with the separate yielding requirement.

Does this page cover every failure-to-yield ticket?

No. This page focuses on section 21802(a). Other situations, such as a left turn or a pedestrian crossing, can involve different provisions. Use the exact code on your citation when asking for help.

What should I do before my due date?

Review the court’s instructions and request information early. A service inquiry does not extend a court deadline.

How California Traffic Tickets can help

California Traffic Tickets is not a law firm. We work with California-licensed attorneys who prepare trial-by-written-declaration materials that clients sign and mail to the court. California-licensed attorneys also handle court appearances for applicable services.

Our two-stage approach involves a written declaration and, where available and appropriate, a trial de novo. Availability and deadlines depend on the court procedure and your case. Ask which service applies, what it includes, and which refund terms apply before enrolling.

See how our process works or request a free quote for your ticket. Requesting a quote does not extend your court deadline or guarantee a particular outcome.

Official references

California Vehicle Code 21802 · California Courts: written-declaration procedure

Updated October 1, 2026. General information; the court’s instructions and advice about your individual case take priority.