Drivers yield to oncoming traffic when passing parked car

A Facebook post titled “Traffic Tip Tuesday” said drivers must yield to oncoming traffic when they need to cross the center line to pass a vehicle parked in their lane. The post said the oncoming vehicle has the right of way because it is occupying its proper lane and the passing driver is entering that lane.

The post advised that the driver who must cross into the opposite lane to bypass a parked vehicle should stop and wait for oncoming traffic to pass. It added that if it is unsafe to proceed or there is not enough room for two vehicles to pass, the driver facing the obstacle should wait.

As an exception, the post noted that if both sides of the road are blocked and both drivers must cross into the other lane, drivers should follow a first-come, first-to-go or cooperative approach. The post warned that a driver who enters the oncoming lane and causes a collision will likely be held at fault.

Traffic laws vary by jurisdiction, but most assign right of way to vehicles remaining in their proper lane. Drivers should reduce speed, be prepared to stop and consult local laws for specifics.