§ 38-257. Driving on streets laned for traffic.

Whenever any street has been divided into two or more clearly marked lanes for traffic, the following rules in addition to all others consistent herewith shall apply:

(1)

A vehicle shall be driven as nearly as practicable entirely within a single lane and shall not be moved from such lane until the driver has first ascertained that such movement can be made with safety;

(2)

Upon a roadway that is divided into three lanes and provided for two-way movement of traffic, no person shall drive a vehicle in the center lane, except:

a.

When overtaking and passing another vehicle traveling in the same direction when such center lane is clear of traffic within a safe distance;

b.

In preparation for making or completing a left turn; or

c.

Where such center lane is at the time allocated exclusively to traffic moving in the direction the vehicle is proceeding and is signposted to give notice of such allocation.

(3)

Official signs may be erected directing slow-moving traffic to use a designated lane or designating those lanes to be used by traffic moving in a particular direction regardless of the center of the street and drivers of vehicles shall obey the directions of every such sign; and

(4)

Official traffic-control devices may be installed prohibiting the changing of lanes on sections of streets, and drivers of vehicles shall obey the directions of every such device.

(Ord. No. 85-218, § 2, 1995; Code 1985, § 10.06.017; Ord. No. 02-236, § 19, 12-17-2013)

State law reference

Similar provisions, NMSA 1978, § 66-7-317.

Cross reference

Streets, sidewalks and other public places, ch. 34.