When you are driving on the road, there are certain times when it is acceptable to pass another vehicle, and certain times when this action can be dangerous. On the other hand, if another vehicle is trying to pass yours, there are situations when you need to yield to the other driver. Connecticut General Statute 14-232 discusses improper passing and failure to yield to passing vehicles. Understanding this law will prevent an improper passing or failure to yield charge when you are driving on Connecticut roads.
Improper Passing
If you want to pass another vehicle on Connecticut roads, you must pass at a safe distance. You also have to pass to the left of the vehicle you want to overtake. The only instances where you can pass another vehicle on the right are:
- When the vehicle you intend to overtake is signaling to make or making a left turn.
- When traffic reduced the speed of vehicles moving in the same direction.
- If traffic has stopped vehicles traveling in the same direction.
- When you are on a one way street with no obstructions. This can only occur if the width of the road will accommodate two or more lines of vehicles.
- When you are on a parkway or limited access highway with no obstructions. There must be room for three or more lanes for you to pass on the right.
When you are in a no passing zone, you should not pass another vehicle on the right or the left.
You can’t pass on the left if the left lane is not clearly free of traffic. This means that there should be no oncoming traffic that will impede your shift to the left lane. A safe distance between your vehicle and another vehicle is three feet. Trying to pass on the left when traffic will not allow it could result in an improper passing charge.
Failure To Yield
People have to make sure that they pass vehicles safely. But vehicles that are being passed also need to practice safety. A vehicle that is being overtaken by another vehicle must yield to this action. You should not increase your speed if another vehicle is trying to overtake yours. Wait until the vehicle has passed yours to increase your speed.
If you violate the improper passing or failure to yield law, you could face a driving infraction. A conviction of this offense could result in fines and the suspension of your license. You cold also have three points assessed against your driver’s license. If you have been charged with improper passing or failure to yield, you can contact me at 203-567-6474 for help.
