New York DMV Permit Written TestRules of the Road and Traffic LawsEasy
You are driving on a multi-lane highway and wish to pass another vehicle. What is the safest and most legal way to do this in New York State?
- APass on the right if there is an open lane, even if the vehicle ahead is not turning.
- BPass on the right shoulder if the vehicle you are passing is turning left.
- CPass on the left, ensuring you have enough space and signal your intention.
- DFlash your high beams to signal the vehicle ahead to move over, then pass on the right.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Pass on the left, ensuring you have enough space and signal your intention.
In New York State, passing on the left is generally required for safety and legality. Passing on the right is only permitted under specific, limited circumstances, and using the shoulder is illegal.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Passing on the right is only allowed in specific situations, such as when the vehicle ahead is making a left turn or on multi-lane roads with specific markings; it's not a general rule for any open lane.
- B. Passing on the shoulder is illegal and dangerous.
- D. Flashing high beams is not a legal way to signal for passing, and passing on the right in this scenario is incorrect.
Passing on the Left
The standard and safest method for overtaking another vehicle on a roadway, requiring the passing vehicle to move into the left lane.
- Always check for clear space before passing.
- Signal your intention to change lanes.
- Return to the right lane only after safely clearing the passed vehicle.
Memory trick: Left is light, right is wrong unless it's tight.