Lawmakers could legalize passing on double-yellow lines

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Drivers who get stuck behind slow cars may soon have another way to get around them in North Carolina.
 
State House members are looking at a proposal that would allow drivers to cross double-yellow lines that are usually no passing zones to get around slower drivers.
 
The proposal comes under several conditions:
 
1. The slow driver would have to be traveling less than half the posted speed limit.
2. A driver would not be able to exceed the speed limit in order to pass the slow driver.
3. A driver must maintain a side distance of 3 feet when passing the slow driver. The left side of the center of the highway is clearly visible, and is free of oncoming traffic for a sufficient distance ahead to permit the overtaking and passing to be made safely.
 
"It sounds like a pretty good idea," said Randall Dorsey, who lives in Gastonia.
 
"I believe some people would definitely abuse it," said Renee Morris, who lives in the Mount Holly area.

The North Carolina Highway Patrol said it understands the mixed emotions from drivers.

"There are times when going too slow becomes unsafe," said Trooper Darren Conrad.

Conrad was quick to reiterate the double-yellow line is placed on specific areas of a road for a reason.

"Engineers research the road," he said. "They look for line of sight, curves and hills. The double-yellow line is designed to keep drivers safe."

Conrad thinks it would be difficult for a driver to make the maneuver under all of the outlined conditions of the proposal.

"You have to follow all of the requirements," he said. "One mistake could cause a death."
 
The North Carolina Department of Transportation and some House members also expressed concerns about the idea, including Mecklenburg County Rep. Becky Carney.
 
"I'm concerned about the liability when I pass on the double-yellow line, legally, if for some reason I hit something," Carney said.
 
A House committee decided to postpone a vote on the issue.

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