Passing other vehicles on a two-lane roadway is one of the most dangerous maneuvers a driver can make while driving. Anytime a vehicle leaves its lane, there is a potential for a collision.
On a two-lane road, a driver must take care when passing because he or she is entering the lane in which other vehicles are driving in the opposite direction. It is the driver of the passing vehicle’s responsibility to ensure the maneuver occurs safely and legally.
Passing a slow vehicle
The Florida Senate states that a driver may only legally pass another vehicle when he or she has a clear view of oncoming traffic. The driver must ensure that he or she can safely pass before any oncoming traffic reaches his or her vehicle.
The Florida Senate also notes that a driver may not overtake another vehicle is he or she is coming up to a railroad crossing, a bridge or an intersection. Furthermore, if there is a curve or hill in the roadway, the driver may not pass as it is not safe to do so due to visual limitations. This applies to anything that could prevent the driver from seeing far enough ahead to assure he or she has enough room to safely pass and return to the right lane.
Passing on the right
The Florida Statutes explain that the law permits passing on the right only when there are no parked vehicles on the roadway and the driver can do it without leaving the roadway. In addition, it is allowable when the overtaken vehicle is turning left or on a one-way street.
