As a driver, it’s your responsibility to understand the rules of the road. That includes staying in your lane and not changing lanes at the wrong times. If you move into another lane when you’re not supposed to, you could commit an illegal lane change and end up facing a serious citation.
What kinds of movements could trigger an officer to pull you over? Here are some examples.
1. Changing lanes when you’re too close to another vehicle
When changing lanes, you need to make sure you have enough room. An unsafe lane change could cause the other driver to go off the road or brake suddenly. Doing that could lead to a collision.
2. Changing lanes without signaling
If you’re going to change lanes, you should always use your turn signal to let other drivers know. If you do not, you’re technically making an unsafe lane change
3. Not considering the lines on the road
Look at the lines on the road. Is it a single dotted line? You’re allowed to pass. Is it a solid line? You have to stay in-lane. These lines explain what you’re allowed, or not allowed, to do, so don’t ignore them.
These are three ways that you could violate the law by not changing lanes correctly. If you’re unsure of your state’s traffic laws, take some time to review them before heading out again. Making appropriate lane changes is important because you will keep yourself and other drivers safer. You can help minimize the risk of a collision just by following simple lane-changing rules. If you do make a mistake and are stopped, remember that you can still defend yourself against the ticket. It’s your right as someone accused of a violation.