Under What Circumstances Is Passing on the Right Allowed in Florida?

According to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), every year, millions of traffic tickets are issued in Florida. One of the reasons drivers receive traffic tickets is passing on the right side. In Florida, drivers are required to pass other vehicles on the left side, not the right. On top of passing other vehicles on the right being illegal, it is dangerous. Passing other cars on the right significantly increases the risk of causing an accident. If a driver passes another vehicle on the right, they can cause an accident that results in severe injuries and even death. However, while passing on the right is generally not permitted in Florida, there are times when passing on the right is legal. Understanding when you are allowed to pass other vehicles on the right is vital as it can help you not only avoid violations but also become a safe driver. In this article, we discuss when it is legal to pass on the right in Florida and tips for passing other motorists safely.

Florida Law About Passing Other Vehicles

In Florida, the general rule is that drivers should pass other vehicles on the left, not the right. When you went to driving school, this was probably one of the things you learned. However, there are times when you are allowed to pass other vehicles on the right. While these occasions are rare, they exist. The situations when a driver is allowed to pass another vehicle on the right are codified in Florida Statute 316.084. According to the law, a driver can overtake and pass another vehicle on the right side under the following conditions;

• The vehicle being passed or overtaken is turning or about to turn left
• On a road or highway with clear pavement wide enough for at least two lanes of moving traffic in each direction and no parked vehicles.
• On a one-way street or any road where traffic moves in only one direction, as long as the road is clear of obstacles and wide enough for at least two lanes of moving vehicles.

Florida Statute 316.084 contains a crucial stipulation that drivers should be aware of. According to the law, drivers should only pass other vehicles on the right if they can make the movement safely. The statute also notes that it is unlawful for a driver to make such a movement by driving off the pavement or a main-traveled part of the road.

Tips for Passing Other Vehicles Safely

When passing another vehicle, whether on the left or right side, the following are some tips to use to ensure your safety and that of other road users;

• Check your mirrors and blind spots
• Signal your intentions
• Avoid passing in unsafe conditions, such as in adverse weather conditions
• Ensure there is enough room in front of the vehicle you are passing
• Check for oncoming traffic
• Ensure the passing lane is clear
• Never pass in a no-passing zone
• Avoid passing on curves and hills
• Once you start passing, complete the pass promptly and safely return to your lane

Legal Help Is Available

In the event of a car accident, our West Palm Beach personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm can help you with your compensation claim.

The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Daytona Beach, Bradenton, Ocala, Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Tampa, Jacksonville, Miami, Naples, and Melbourne areas.

Source:

flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2021/316.084