Driving On Right Side of Roadway CVC 21651
Stay within the lines. Which lines?
Why, the ones which keep you on the right side of the road, of course. Driving on the right side of the roadway can be dangerous as pedestrians and inactive vehicles can be pulled off into the shoulder for numerous purposes.
California Vehicle Code 21651 states:
(a) Whenever a highway has been divided into two or more roadways by means of intermittent barriers or by means of a dividing section of not less than two feet in width, either unpaved or delineated by curbs, double-parallel lines, or other markings on the roadway, it is unlawful to do either of the following:
(1) To drive any vehicle over, upon, or across the dividing section.
(2) To make any left, semicircular, or U-turn with the vehicle on the divided highway, except through an opening in the barrier designated and intended by public authorities for the use of vehicles or through a plainly marked opening in the dividing section.
(b) It is unlawful to drive any vehicle upon a highway, except to the right of an intermittent barrier or a dividing section which separates two or more opposing lanes of traffic.
The High Price of Violating the Line Barrier
While driving a vehicle, crossing the dividing lines of a highway can be extremely dangerous for both the driver doing so and any oncoming traffic.
Whether a driver crosses the line for just a few seconds or drives down the wrong side of a divided highway, accidents can happen in the blink of an eye.
That’s why a violation of this code can carry a pretty hefty fine (a minimum of $238), either one or two points on your driver’s license depending on the actual infraction, and if the violation results in the injury or death of a person, it can call for a sentence of imprisonment as well.
If you were cited for violating the line barrier, our team can help you better understand your options and work with you to challenge the allegations. Reach out to us today for a free citation review.
Califonia Vehicle Code 21651 is serious
With a fine amount in excess of $237 and a point on your record, the consequences can be stiff if the violation is not dismissed. Most driving on the right side of the roadway violations are by mistake.
Often times drivers are confused on the correct path to navigate and make a mistake
Other times the roadway is not clearly marked giving the driver misguided signals that lead to confusion. In either scenario, the legal merits of the violation must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt for the officer/state to uphold the violation.
If you were cited for an alleged violation of CVC 21651 we are here to help. Our team offers a free ticket review and is the best in the business when it comes to California traffic tickets.