When the road is marked with a solid yellow line and a broken yellow line, with the broken line next to your lane, you may pass:
Only in an emergency.
If you are on an expressway.
If traffic is clear.
Only at an intersection.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is: If traffic is clear.
Explanation:
Road markings are essential tools for regulating and guiding traffic. When the road is marked with a solid yellow line and a broken yellow line, the positioning of the broken line relative to your lane indicates whether passing is permitted.
- Broken Yellow Line Next to Your Lane: This indicates that you are allowed to pass, provided you can do so safely. Passing must only occur when there is sufficient visibility and no oncoming traffic within a safe distance.
- Solid Yellow Line Next to Your Lane: This indicates that passing is not permitted from your lane. A solid yellow line signifies areas where visibility might be restricted or passing could create dangerous conditions, such as curves, hills, or intersections.
Key Considerations for Passing:
- Traffic Clearance: Before attempting to pass, ensure the road ahead is free of oncoming vehicles and that no vehicles are approaching in the opposite direction.
- Legal and Safe Passing: Ensure passing is legal and safe by checking for road signs or conditions that might override the broken line’s permission (e.g., no-passing zones marked by signs).
- Sufficient Space: Only pass if there is enough space to return safely to your lane without causing disruption to the flow of traffic.
- Avoid Passing at Intersections: Even if the broken line allows passing, intersections are generally not safe for overtaking due to crossing or turning vehicles.
Practical Scenario:
Imagine you’re driving on a two-lane road with a broken yellow line on your side. Ahead, the road is clear, and there are no oncoming vehicles or obstructions. You may overtake the vehicle in front of you. However, if visibility decreases or there’s an intersection nearby, it’s better to wait until it’s absolutely safe.
Understanding road markings and obeying traffic rules helps ensure safety for all road users.