ORLANDO, Fla. – News 6 traffic safety expert Trooper Steve answers viewer questions and shares tips about the rules of the road, helping Central Florida residents become better drivers by being better educated.
Trooper Steve on Tuesday was asked, “Is there a time when someone can cross the double-yellow line?”
“As a former Florida Highway Patrol trooper, I’ve seen firsthand how much confusion these lines can create,” Trooper Steve said. “Most drivers understand the basic message: Double solid yellow means no passing -- and that part is absolutely true.”
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Florida Statute 316.0875 makes it clear that crossing those lines to pass another vehicle is illegal, no matter how slow the car in front of you is going or how tempting the open road ahead looks.
But here’s where it surprises people: There are a few very specific moments when crossing that double yellow is legal.
The first is when you’re making a left turn. If you need to turn into a driveway, side street, residence or business, the law allows you to cross the double yellow to do so. You’re not passing traffic, you’re simply moving into a lawful turning position.
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The second exception comes when law enforcement, road workers or emergency personnel direct you to cross the line. In those moments, their instructions override the roadway markings because safety and traffic control take priority.
And Florida law does allow you to safely pass a bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle — just be careful when you do.
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Outside of those limited situations, the rule doesn’t budge. The markings are there to separate opposing traffic and reduce the risk of head-on collisions, which remain some of the most severe crashes we see on Florida roads.