A vehicle traveling behind a slow-moving truck on a two-lane roadway approaches a section marked with a solid yellow line on the driver's side and a broken yellow line on the opposing side. The driver notices that the markings will transition to a broken yellow line on their side in approximately 150 feet. To gain momentum, the driver crosses the solid yellow centerline into the opposing lane to begin accelerating before reaching the broken yellow line segment. Which statement accurately describes the statutory legality of this maneuver?
- The maneuver is illegal because a driver may only cross into the opposing lane to pass when a broken yellow line is already present on their side of the road at the time the pass is initiated.Answer
- BThe maneuver is legal provided the vehicle completes the entire passing action after the pavement marking transitions to a broken yellow line on their side.
- CThe maneuver is legal as long as the driver maintains a clear line of sight for 500 feet and signals continuously throughout the lane change.
- DThe maneuver is illegal solely because passing slow-moving vehicles on two-lane highways is restricted within 500 feet of any pavement marking change.
Answer
The maneuver is illegal because a driver may only cross into the opposing lane to pass when a broken yellow line is already present on their side of the road at the time the pass is initiated.
Under standard traffic laws, a solid yellow centerline on the driver's side designates a strict no-passing zone. Legal passing requires that a broken yellow line be present on the driver's side at the point where the vehicle crosses into the opposing lane. Anticipating an upcoming broken yellow line or accelerating early across a solid yellow line is illegal.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Centerline Pavement Marking Passing Rules
Estimated Time:2m 0s