Is It Illegal To Pass On Right In New York State?

One of the most frustrating things as a driver is when a slow-moving vehicle is in the left lane.

Not only does that driver slow up traffic, but they could make you break the law if you want to pass them.

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Did you know that passing on the right is illegal in New York State? Yes, it is true!

According to traffic laws in New York, you could get a ticket if you pass someone on the right. There are only certain conditions where it is legal to pass someone on the right in the "Empire State".

The driver of a vehicle may overtake and pass upon the right of another vehicle only under the following conditions:

1. When the vehicle overtaken is making or about to make a left turn

2. Upon a street or highway with unobstructed pavement not occupied by parked vehicles of sufficient width for two or more lines of moving vehicles in each direction

3. Upon a one-way street, or any roadway on which traffic is restricted to one direction of movement, where the roadway is free from obstructions and of sufficient width for two or more lines of moving vehicles.

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If you pass on the right and violate one of the above rules you could end up getting a ticket and fine.

Here are the penalties for passing on the right in New York State.

• A fine of up to $150 for a first offense, up to $300 for a second offense within 18 months, and up to $450 for a third offense within 18 months
• Three points against the individual’s driving record for each violation.
• An additional state surcharge of $88 or $93, depending on whether the ticket was issued in a city or town/village.

So when you are driving you might just want to have a little more patience and make sure you pick the right time to pass on the right.