Final answer:
The statement is TRUE as right-of-way rules are essential but must be applied with common sense and courtesy to ensure safety and order on the roadways, especially in unique situations that require flexibility.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that right-of-way rules should be accompanied with common sense and courtesy is TRUE. These rules are essential for maintaining order and safety on the roadways, but they must be applied with a degree of flexibility to accommodate real-world situations and ensure the well-being of all road users.
For instance, a driver may encounter a situation where strictly adhering to the right-of-way rules might not be the safest or most courteous course of action, such as yielding the right-of-way to emergency vehicles or proceeding with caution when the light turns green if there are still pedestrians in the crosswalk.
In another scenario, like the one described where a driver is rushing a pregnant woman to the hospital at 4 am with no other cars around, common sense might dictate that the driver cautiously proceed through a red light if waiting could put the woman and her baby at risk. However, such actions should always be taken with utmost care and due regard to the safety of all concerned.
It's important to acknowledge both the de jure (official) rules and the de facto (unwritten or actually practiced) rules. Understanding the hidden curriculum of common sense and courtesy alongside the formal rules can help avoid accidents and ensure smooth transportation flow.
In essence, while rules and regulations provide a foundation for road safety, common sense and courtesy fill in the gaps in unexpected or nuanced situations, leading to better outcomes for everyone involved.