Can You Legally Pass Another Car On The Right In Michigan?

There is nothing worse than an inconsiderate driver. Whether they are speeding or clogging the flow of traffic, its amazing how easily someone can ruin your commute by breaking simple rules of the road.

Nothing makes me rage more than getting stuck behind some jerk who thinks its entirely acceptable to clog the left lane by going under the speed limit. Or WORSE they just match the speed of the car they should be passing. Don't they notice the traffic piling up behind them as they terrorize everyone else with their actions?

You're probably already aware of the fact that it's illegal in Michigan (as well as other surrounding states) to block the left lane when you aren't passing. But, what about that right lane? Can you pass them to the other side?

Can You Legally Pass Another Car On The Right In Michigan?

The answer is mostly yes, with a few circumstances that are frowned upon / against the rules.

According to Michigan state law, it's okay to use the right lane to pass another vehicle in certain circumstances.

The driver of a vehicle may overtake and pass another vehicle upon the right only under conditions permitting the overtaking and passing in safety. The driver of a vehicle shall not overtake and pass another vehicle upon the right by driving off the pavement or main-traveled portion of the roadway.

However, you still have to be careful about when you do this because there are a few times its NOT okay. For example, you may not pass to the right if you're using an emergency lane to do so. You also may not change lanes and pass to the right (or left) in the middle of an intersection.

So, if you're traveling don't be afraid to go around those morons who misuse the passing lane. Just make sure you're also being courteous and following the rules of the road, because after all: two wrongs don't make it right when it comes to passing to the right.