Final answer:
The driver of the vehicle on the left must yield to the vehicle on the right at an intersection. This 'right-of-way' rule helps prevent accidents. However, during emergencies, utilitarian principles may suggest exceptions to traffic laws.
Step-by-step explanation:
When two or more vehicles approach an intersection at the same time, the driver of the vehicle on the left shall yield to the vehicle on the right. This is a common driving rule known as the "right-of-way" rule, which is used to prevent accidents at intersections without traffic signals. In a scenario where a car is traveling east toward an intersection while a truck travels south toward the same intersection, if both arrive simultaneously, the vehicle on the left (in this case, the car traveling east) would need to yield to the vehicle on the right (the truck traveling south).
It's also worth mentioning that specific circumstances can override common right-of-way rules, such as when a vehicle has to run a red light in an emergency situation. An example provided includes a situation where a pregnant woman is about to deliver and the driver must get to the hospital quickly. In such a case, utilitarian principles might suggest breaking the traffic law could be morally justifiable, although it is legally not permitted.