Texas Driver's License Knowledge TestTraffic Laws and RegulationsHard
A driver is driving on a two-lane road and approaches a large pothole. To avoid the pothole, the driver swerves into the oncoming lane for a brief moment, even though there is no oncoming traffic. Is this action permissible under Texas law?
- ANo, crossing a solid yellow center line into an oncoming lane is generally illegal, even for an obstruction.
- BOnly if the pothole is large enough to cause significant damage to the vehicle.
- CYes, if the driver signals their intention to swerve.
- DYes, as long as there is no oncoming traffic and it's a safety measure.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. No, crossing a solid yellow center line into an oncoming lane is generally illegal, even for an obstruction.
While avoiding hazards is important, crossing a solid yellow center line into an oncoming lane is generally illegal in Texas, as it constitutes driving on the wrong side of the road. Drivers should slow down, drive around the hazard if possible within their lane, or stop if necessary, rather than illegally entering oncoming traffic lanes.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. The severity of the pothole does not override the legal prohibition against crossing a solid yellow line into oncoming traffic.
- C. Signaling does not make an illegal maneuver legal.
- D. This is incorrect; the legality of crossing a solid yellow line isn't contingent on the absence of oncoming traffic alone, but on the prohibition of crossing it.
Crossing Yellow Lines (Hazard Avoidance)
In Texas, crossing a solid yellow center line into an oncoming lane is generally illegal, even to avoid a hazard. Drivers should avoid hazards within their lane or by stopping, rather than violating traffic laws.
- Solid yellow line prohibits crossing for passing.
- Also prohibits crossing to avoid hazards into oncoming lane.
- Prioritize staying in your lane or stopping.
- Safety must be balanced with legal compliance.
Memory trick: Solid Yellow means Stay, Even Potholes Say Nay.