Can right of way be handed over without the land owners knowledge?

Answer 1

Yes, IF the right-of-way is recognized by an easement and IF that easement is assignable.

Clarification

A right of way generally runs with the land it is intended to benefit. The original grant is generally made to the grantee, their heirs and assigns. When ownership of that benefitted land is transferred the right of way goes along with it as an appurtenant right. On the other hand, the owner of the easement right cannot separate the easement from the benefitted land and transfer only the easement right to someone else who owns other land that adjoins the easement.

A right of way is conveyed forward to subsequent owners of the benefitted land. The landowner who granted the original easement is not notified of each subsequent transfer.