By LawInspectsThe short and sweet answer is: Sometimes Yes, and sometimes No! You see, while most of the time, passing on the right side when driving on a road isn’t particularly illegal, but it can be illegal in some specific cases. So, if you are a bit confused about that, just keep on reading to feel clearer in your head.
What Is Passing on the Right?
Put simply, passing on the right means overtaking another vehicle using the lane on their right side. The left lane is usually used for overtaking and deemed safer and more predictable to do so. However, passing on the right does occur in certain situations: for example, in the case of the vehicle ahead turning left or with the left lane being blocked.
Though, the main question here is: is it legal to do that? Let’s talk about just that, shall we?
The Quick Answer: Sometimes Yes, Sometimes No
We won’t say that passing from the right is completely illegal, but neither do we want to say that it is authorized or perfectly fine. And that is just because it depends on three things:
- Is this safe?
- Are you going out of your way (outside your lane)?
- Is there more than one lane going in your direction?
If the answer to all these three questions is “yes,” then it is generally allowed and you won’t get in trouble when doing this. However, since state laws can be different, better to play it safe and put the matter on hold if you’re doubting it.
What the Law Says in Different States
Indiana
Yes, and there are some conditions for doing so in Indiana. The road must be two lanes or more lanes, technically in the same direction. Even if it is supposed to be OK, if it is done in a reckless way, then this passing is considered illegal. Speeding? Definitely not. Cutting off another vehicle? A big no. Also, if one is going on and on in the left lane without passing anyone, that vehicle is probably breaking a law as well in Indiana!
California
California law allows passing from the right on a paved roadway. That means you cannot utilize the shoulder or a bike lane. If it can be done safely, legally, and on a road lane, then all is fine. And if you break any of the rules, you can become liable for a fine of $200 or more, and a point will go on your record.
New York
The thing is, actually, New York is kinda more stringent about passing on the right. You are only allowed to pass if:
- The other vehicle is turning left
- The road has two or more lanes in the same direction
- You are on a one-way street with enough room to pass
Anything else might earn you a $450 fine and three points on your driver’s license, which will, in turn, raise your insurance.
What Are Some General Guidelines Then?
Many law experts make it clear that you can only pass to the right if it is lawful and absolutely safe to do so. Most states permit right-side passing in recognized situations, such as when the car in front is preparing to turn left or when a multilane highway is involved. Any form of passing that endangers life could never be deemed alright, no matter where in the world you are.
Why Some States Don’t Allow It
It is prohibited in many states to pass on the right because of the clear danger involved. Most drivers expect to be passed on their left. Passing on the right suddenly may cause a side swipe or even a collision. The extra risk comes because the right lane is also frequently occupied by vehicles merging onto the road or preparing to exit.