§ 62-108. Passing a vehicle proceeding in same direction.

The following rules shall govern the overtaking and passing of vehicles proceeding in the same direction, subject to those limitations, exceptions, and special rules stated in this section:

(1)

The driver of a vehicle overtaking another vehicle proceeding in the same direction shall pass to the left thereof at a safe distance and shall not again drive to the right side of the roadway until safely clear of the overtaken vehicle.

(2)

No vehicle shall be driven to the left side of the center of the roadway in overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction, unless such left side is clearly visible and is free from oncoming traffic for a sufficient distance ahead to permit such overtaking and passing to be completely made without interfering with the safe operation of any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction or any vehicle being overtaken. In every event, the overtaking vehicle must return to an authorized lane of travel as soon as practical and, if the passing movement involves the use of a lane authorized for vehicles approaching from the opposite direction, before coming within 100 feet of any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction.

(3)

No vehicle shall be driven on the left side of the roadway under the following conditions:

a.

When approaching the crest of a grade or upon a curve in the highway where the driver's view is obstructed within such distance as to create a hazard in the event another vehicle might approach from the opposite direction;

b.

When approaching within 100 feet of or traversing any intersection or railroad grade crossing;

c.

When the view is obstructed upon approaching within 100 feet of any bridge, viaduct, or tunnel.

(4)

Except when overtaking and passing on the right is permitted, the driver of an overtaken vehicle shall give way to the right in favor of the overtaking vehicle and shall not increase the speed of his vehicle until completely passed by the overtaking vehicle.

(5)

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

a.

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

b.

Upon a roadway with unobstructed pavement not occupied with parked vehicles of sufficient width for two or more lines of moving vehicles in each direction;

c.

Upon a one-way roadway, or upon 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.

(6)

The driver of a vehicle may overtake and pass another vehicle upon the right only under conditions permitting such movement in safety. In no event shall such movement be made by driving off the pavement or main-traveled portion of the roadway.

(Ord. No. O-90-9-112, § 7-3, 9-10-90)

State law reference

Similar provisions, T.C.A. § 55-8-120.