Introduction
In Washington State, RCW 46.61.100, also known as the “Keep Right Except When Passing” law, plays a crucial role in maintaining road safety and ensuring smooth traffic flow. This law outlines the specific circumstances under which drivers must remain in the right lane and when they are permitted to use the left lane. Understanding and adhering to this law is essential for all drivers to prevent traffic infractions and promote safer roadways.
Key Provisions of RCW 46.61.100
RCW 46.61.100 mandates that drivers must stay in the right-hand lane on roads wide enough to accommodate multiple lanes of traffic moving in the same direction. Here are the main provisions:
- General Rule:
- Vehicles should be driven in the right half of the roadway unless overtaking and passing another vehicle, facing an obstruction, or on a roadway divided into three lanes for two-way traffic.
- Exceptions:
- Drivers may use the left lane when overtaking another vehicle traveling in the same direction.
- When an obstruction makes it necessary to drive to the left of the center of the highway.
- On one-way streets or highways.
- When encountering stationary emergency vehicles, tow trucks, or other roadside assistance vehicles with visible warning lights.
- Multilane Roadways:
- On roadways with two or more lanes for traffic moving in the same direction, vehicles must use the right-hand lane, except when overtaking, traveling faster than traffic flow, allowing merging traffic, or preparing for a left turn.
- Heavy Vehicles:
- Vehicles or combinations over 10,000 pounds and vehicles towing trailers must stay in the right-hand lane except when overtaking, preparing for a left turn, or using a high-occupancy vehicle lane.
- Continuous Left Lane Driving:
- It is a traffic infraction to continuously drive in the left lane of a multilane roadway if it impedes the flow of other traffic.
- Roads with Four or More Lanes:
- On roads with four or more lanes for two-way traffic, vehicles must not drive to the left of the center line except as permitted for making left turns or authorized by traffic control devices.
Importance of Compliance
Compliance with RCW 46.61.100 is vital for several reasons:
- Traffic Flow: Keeping slower-moving vehicles in the right lane allows faster-moving traffic to pass safely, reducing congestion and improving overall traffic flow.
- Safety: Reducing lane changes and maintaining predictable traffic patterns decreases the likelihood of accidents.
- Legal Consequences: Violating this law can result in traffic infractions, fines, and points on a driver’s license, impacting insurance rates and driving records.
Conclusion
Understanding and following RCW 46.61.100 is essential for all drivers in Washington State. By keeping right except when passing, drivers contribute to safer and more efficient roadways. If you have any questions or need legal assistance regarding traffic laws, contact Blanford Law for expert guidance and support.
You can read the text of RCW 46.61.100 here: https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=46.61.100
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