Passing on the Right: What Fort Worth Drivers Need to Know

Passing on the right is one of those traffic maneuvers drivers ask a lot of questions about. Is it legal to pass on the right in Texas? Is it safe to pass on the right? When could passing on the right increase the risk of a crash?

Our experienced Fort Worth car crash lawyers answer these and other questions drivers may have about passing vehicles on the right in Texas. We also discuss the dangers and when a passing driver may be held liable if a crash results.

Need legal help after being injured by a negligent Fort Worth driver? Our knowledgeable legal team is prepared to help. We manage complex car accident claims for victims injured in Texas collisions every day, something we have been doing for decades. Take advantage of the free initial consultation we offer to learn about your potential legal options. There is no obligation to move forward.

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Passing Vehicles in Texas: Why Passing on the Left is the Standard

Texas drivers must follow state guidelines when passing other vehicles. Generally, it is best to pass vehicles on the left side after drivers have done the following:

• Check traffic to ensure there is sufficient space to complete the pass safely
• Use turn signals properly to indicate their intention to pass on the left
• Return to the right lane only when it is safe to do so
• Be sure you do not risk cutting off the passing vehicle

Is It Illegal to Pass on the Right in Texas?

It is not always illegal to pass vehicles on the right in Texas. However, there are specific circumstances where drivers can legally pass on the right.

If a vehicle in front of you is making a left turn, you may pass on the right if the following conditions exist:

• The road has two or more lanes of traffic moving in the same direction.
• You are driving on a one-way street.
• You have checked traffic to confirm it is safe to pass.

However, if these conditions do not exist or if passing on the right would endanger others, then doing so becomes illegal.

Here are some specific examples of when drivers may legally pass on the right in Texas:

• On a multi-lane highway where the left lanes of traffic are congested
• When approaching an intersection and the vehicle ahead of you is signaling to turn left
• On a one way street that has multiple lanes traveling in the same direction

Drivers Must Always Exercise Caution When Passing on the Right

Even when the right conditions are met, drivers must exercise caution when passing on the right. Be aware of potential hazards such as merging traffic, pedestrians or cyclists. Most individuals are not expecting a vehicle to pass on the right side.

No matter which side you pass on, it is your legal duty to prioritize safety.

When Is Passing on the Right a Potential Crash Risk?

There are driving situations that inherently increase your risk of a crash if you pass on the right.

Reduced Visibility

Drivers typically expect other vehicles to pass them on the left and may not be as careful to check for passing vehicles on their right. Semi-trucks, big rigs and other commercial trucks have larger blind spots. Even if they check for traffic on the right, they might not see your vehicle.

Unexpected Maneuvers

If you are traveling on a multi-lane road or in another situation where passing on the right is legal, it could catch a driver ahead of you off-guard. Drivers may often not expect a faster vehicle to approach them from the right in order to pass them. If that driver moves into the right lane while you are passing, it could result in a dangerous crash.

Merging Conflicts

Passing on the right near highway exits or entrance ramps could put you in conflict with vehicles trying to enter or exit the highway. Having multiple vehicles changing speeds and directions in close proximity greatly increases the risk of a collision.

Specific scenarios that illustrate these risks include:

• A car passing on the right of a large truck that suddenly needs to change lanes
• Passing on the right near an exit ramp and conflicting with exiting traffic
• Overtaking on the right in heavy traffic, where gaps between vehicles can close unexpectedly

In all cases, the key factors contributing to a crash risk are reduced visibility, unexpected vehicle movements and the potential for sudden conflicts with merging or turning vehicles. Drivers should always exercise extreme caution when considering passing on the right, even when it is legal to do so.

When Could a Driver Be Liable for a Crash Due to Passing on the Right?

Drivers passing on the right could be liable for any crash resulting from them not taking proper precautions or following traffic laws. Here are some situations where a passing driver could be liable:

• The situation rendered passing on the right illegal
• It was unsafe to pass on the right even though legal
• The driver failed to yield as required by law

Key Tips for Safely Passing Traffic in Fort Worth

Drivers follow the law and take reasonable steps to avoid contributing to a crash when they:

• Know local and state laws concerning passing other vehicles and proper lane usage.
• Practice defensive driving by staying alert, driving defensively and anticipating other drivers’ actions.
• Use lanes properly, such as by keeping right, except to pass, signaling to change lanes and ensuring you have sufficient room to do so.
• Navigate intersections carefully, paying close attention to signals, markings and other road users.
• Adapt to conditions, adjusting your driving for the road, weather or other conditions.
• Respect the law, including in work zones.

Anderson & Cummings Is Ready to Help You After a Crash

If you were injured in a crash caused by a negligent Fort Worth driver, we are prepared to help. You can call our law firm 24/7 to schedule a free case review to discuss your situation. This meeting is completely free and confidential. If we represent you, there are also no upfront costs to pay.

Call our law offices to learn more about your potential legal options. Deadlines apply, so we strongly recommend seeking legal help sooner rather than later.

Experienced Lawyers. Proven Results. (817) 920-9000