Understanding and following traffic laws plays an important role in ensuring road safety. This includes laws on passing on the right. While certain traffic laws are universal throughout the U.S., the details vary from state to state. In most states, you cannot pass on the right unless the vehicle being passed is about to turn left or the roadway is wide enough to fit two lanes of traffic.
So is it illegal to pass on the right in California? In The Golden State, it is legal to pass on the right, as long as you do so in a safe manner. Similarly, you should not break any other laws in the process.
Keep reading to learn more.
When is it Illegal to Pass on the Right?
California traffic laws restrict when and how you can pass another vehicle. As such, understanding the conditions that make it illegal to pass a car on the right will go a long way in helping to avoid offending the law. So exactly when is it illegal to pass on the right in this state?
In California, Vehicle Code Section 21755 outlines the legality of passing on the right. Basically, you can only pass a vehicle on the right if it is safe to do so. Typically, safe or unsafe passing is determined by the facts of a given case.
Below are the restrictions:
- You cannot pass another driver on the right in an unsafe manner
- Moreover, you cannot pass a car on the right by driving off of the paved road
- You cannot pass on the right by driving on the shoulder of the road or a bicycle lane. Doing so can result in a traffic violation.
Section 21755 of the Vehicle Code does not prohibit the use of a bicycle on a shoulder or in a bicycle lane. If you are cycling, as long as it is safe, you can pass on the shoulder of the road or use a bicycle lane to pass a vehicle on the right.
What are the Penalties for Passing on the Right Illegally?
In California, passing on the right illegally is considered an infraction. Other than taking responsibility for any accidents caused by your illegal action, there are other consequences you could receive from this law violation.
- You can receive a ticket, typically in the amount of $237, and
- A point on your driver’s license record
If you receive too many points within a one-, two- or three-year period in California, the DMV can declare you a negligent operator. As a result, you may have your driving privileges suspended or even revoked. Also, your insurer can get information on your driving record by checking with the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles. Accumulating too many points can impact your car insurance rates for several years.
Dangers of Reckless Passing
Apart from the legal consequences, reckless passing can increase the risk of an accident and cause serious personal injury or death. The types of accidents that may occur if you engage in reckless passing include:
- Broadside collisions
- Sideswipe accidents
- Rollover accidents
- Intersection accidents
Sometimes, passing drivers can opt to drive off of the shoulder of the road. However, this may cause serious damage to your vehicle. The damage may result from roadside debris, loss of control when transitioning between the road and the shoulder, sideswiping a median or re-entry collisions.
Considering the dangers of reckless passing, it is important to stay safe on the road. To make a safe maneuver to pass a car:
- Check your surroundings to confirm whether passing is legal
- Scan for hazards and check for blind spots
- Ensure you can pass without exceeding the speed limit
- Avoid aggressive driving behaviors
- Use your turn signals and mirrors
- Ensure there is plenty of distance ahead to complete the maneuver
Responsible Driving Tips
Embracing a culture of responsible driving will help you to stay safe, stay away from trouble with the law, and avoid a car insurance increase. Below are a few responsible driving tips to help you get started.
- Practice defensive driving
- Minimize distractions and focus on the road
- Exercise patience while on the road
- Follow all traffic rules and regulations
- Be alert while driving at night
Injured in an Accident? Contact a Lawyer.
Regardless of whether or not you are at fault, or if you have been injured in a road traffic accident, be sure to take the right legal steps to protect your rights and interests. This includes contacting an experienced car accident attorney as soon as possible. Car accident cases can be complicated and may take time to resolve. As such, you need a skilled legal practitioner by your side to help you with the legal process.
Nadrich Accident Injury Lawyers have the expertise and experience required to handle your case competently. No matter the circumstances of your case, we will help you navigate the legal issues with confidence and clarity. Complete the contact form on our website or call us at (800)718-4658 for a free case evaluation.
