Is It Illegal to Pass on the Right in Texas?
If you’re from Texas or have driven there before, you know that the roads can be a bit chaotic, especially in major cities like Houston or Dallas. With so many cars on the road, it’s important to know the rules of the road to avoid accidents and keep everyone safe.
One question that comes up a lot is whether it’s illegal to pass someone on the right-hand side in Texas. The answer is yes, it is illegal to pass on the right in Texas except under certain specific circumstances. According to Texas Transportation Code 545.051, a driver can only legally pass on the right in the following situations:
When Overtaking and Passing on the Right Is Legal in Texas
— When the vehicle in front of you is making a left turn
— When the vehicle in front of you is stopped or moving at a very slow speed
— When the vehicle in front of you has indicated its intention to make a right turn and it is safe to pass on the right
Dangers of Passing on the Right in Texas
Passing on the right is dangerous because it increases the risk of a collision. When you pass on the right, you are cutting off the vehicle in front of you and forcing them to take evasive action. This can lead to a head-on collision, a rear-end collision, or even a sideswipe collision.
In addition to being dangerous, passing on the right is also illegal in Texas. If you are caught passing on the right, you could be ticketed and fined. The fine for passing on the right in Texas is $200.
Tips for Avoiding Passing on the Right in Texas
The best way to avoid passing on the right in Texas is to be aware of the vehicles around you and to stay in your lane until it is safe to pass. If you do need to pass, make sure to do so on the left-hand side of the vehicle in front of you.
Here are some additional tips for avoiding passing on the right in Texas:
- Stay in your lane until it is safe to pass.
- Pass on the left-hand side of the vehicle in front of you.
- Do not pass if the vehicle in front of you is making a left turn.
- Do not pass if the vehicle in front of you is stopped or moving at a very slow speed.
- Do not pass if the vehicle in front of you has indicated its intention to make a right turn.
FAQs About Passing on the Right in Texas
Q: Is it illegal to pass on the right in Texas?
A: Yes, it is illegal to pass on the right in Texas except under certain specific circumstances.
Q: What are the penalties for passing on the right in Texas?
A: The fine for passing on the right in Texas is $200.
Q: What are some tips for avoiding passing on the right in Texas?
A: Some tips for avoiding passing on the right in Texas include staying in your lane until it is safe to pass, passing on the left-hand side of the vehicle in front of you, and not passing if the vehicle in front of you is making a left turn, stopped, moving very slowly, or has indicated its intention to make a right turn.
Conclusion
Passing on the right is dangerous and illegal in Texas. By following the tips above, you can help to keep yourself and others safe on the road, so next time you’re driving in Texas, remember to stay in your lane!
Would you like to learn more about the rules of the road in Texas? Visit the Texas Department of Public Safety website for more information.
