Why some drivers use Rock Paper Scissors on the road
Rock Paper Scissors can turn small standoffs into quick, friendly decisions. Drivers may use it when both arrive at a stop at the same time, or when two cars try to merge from low speed in the same gap. A short, visible game lowers tension and replaces horns or sharp gestures with a clean result. People remember the moment and drive away in a better mood.
Safety and law come first
Traffic laws always outrank games. Yield rules, right of way, and signals decide who goes. If the law is clear, follow it. Never play while moving. Only consider a quick game when both vehicles are fully stopped, no one behind is forced to wait, sight lines are clear, and all vulnerable road users have crossed. If there is any doubt, wave the other driver through or follow the posted rule.
When a quick game can help
- A four way stop when both drivers arrive at the same time and neither has clear priority.
- Two cars facing each other both turning into the same single lane in a parking lot.
- A low speed exit from a crowded event where volunteers are not directing traffic.
Both vehicles must be stopped. Windows do not need to be open. Both drivers should be calm and attentive.
How to do it safely
- Keep it simple and fast.
- Make eye contact.
- Hold one hand where it is easy to see above the wheel.
- Count with head nods. Reveal on shoot. Accept the result at once.
- Move off smoothly. Keep one hand on the wheel. Do not hold up the cars behind you.
When not to use it
- Speed above walking pace.
- Pedestrians or cyclists nearby.
- Poor visibility or bad weather.
- An emergency vehicle present.
- Signalized intersections, roundabouts, or any place with defined control.
- The other driver looks confused or distracted.
If any of these apply, skip the game and use a clear hand wave or follow the posted rule.
Benefits in the right setting
- Defuses tense moments and reduces horn use.
- Shortens back and forth waves that block lanes.
- Turns a potential conflict into a shared laugh.
- Lowers stress, which can improve the next minutes of driving.
Better default options
- Follow right of way rules. First to stop goes first. If tied, yield to the right.
- Yield to pedestrians.
- Yield when turning left across opposing traffic.
- Use a single palm up wave to settle polite standoffs.
Rock Paper Scissors is for rare stalemates, not routine use.
Tips for special contexts
Event lots and school pick up lines often move at walking pace. Staff can announce a simple rule to keep flow steady, for example odd rows first then even rows. If you still meet another car head to head with no posted order, agree by gesture on one quick game, then move on. Keep engines in drive, feet on the brake, and attention on surroundings.
FAQ
Is it legal to use Rock Paper Scissors on the road? Laws vary by place. You must follow posted signs and right of way. Never block traffic or create a distraction. If the law is clear, do not play.
Does it reduce road rage? It can help in rare low risk stalemates by replacing friction with a quick, neutral choice. Use it only when safe and stationary.
Should cyclists or pedestrians use it? Only in safe, low speed settings like shared paths or event exits, and only when everyone agrees and no one else is waiting. Normal yielding rules still apply.
Sources and related WRPSA pages
- WRPSA Rules – Cadence, clean throws, and fair play for quick decisions.
- WRPSA Strategy Guide – Tactics for respectful decisions in casual settings.
- WRPSA Tournaments – Event structure and etiquette that carry over to daily play.
- NHTSA – Guidance on staying calm and preventing conflicts.
- WHO road safety – Principles for safe behavior for all road users.