Question

Difficulty: HardBicycles and Micro-Mobility Devices

When overtaking a bicyclist operating below the normal speed of traffic on a two-lane roadway marked with a solid double yellow line, a motorist is legally permitted to briefly cross the double yellow line to maintain the mandatory three-foot passing clearance, provided oncoming traffic is clear and the maneuver can be completed safely.

Answer: Answer

Answer

True. Drivers are legally permitted to cross a solid double yellow line to safely overtake a slow-moving bicyclist with required clearance, provided oncoming traffic is clear and visual conditions permit a safe pass.
The statement is True because standard traffic regulations explicitly create an exception allowing motorists to cross solid double yellow markings to pass slow-moving bicyclists, as long as sight lines are clear and oncoming traffic permits a safe maneuver with mandatory three-foot clearance.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the general rule for solid double yellow lines.
Solid double yellow lines indicate a strict no-passing zone for overtaking motor vehicles.
The markings prevent head-on collisions on two-lane roads with restricted visibility or higher speed risks.
2
Identify statutory exceptions for vulnerable road users.
State vehicle codes grant an exception allowing drivers to cross double yellow lines to pass bicycles and micro-mobility devices.
This exception enables drivers to fulfill mandatory safe passing laws (such as giving at least three feet of clearance) without causing dangerous traffic delays or unlawful tailgating.
3
Evaluate the safety conditions required for the exception to apply.
The driver must ensure clear sight distance and an absence of oncoming traffic before crossing the median marking.
Executing the pass remains illegal if it endangers oncoming traffic, the bicyclist, or forces other road users to alter their path.

Key Concept

Double Yellow Line Passing Exceptions for Vulnerable Road Users
Rate this question