Alabama § 32-5A-82 - Overtaking Vehicle on Left.
Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 32-5A-82 — Overtaking Vehicle on Left., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 32-5A-82. Overtaking Vehicle on Left.
The following rules shall govern the overtaking and passing of vehicles proceeding in the same direction, subject to those limitations, exceptions, and special rules hereinafter stated:
(1) The driver of a vehicle overtaking another vehicle proceeding in the same direction shall pass to the left thereof at a safe distance and shall not again drive to the right side of the roadway until safely clear of the overtaken vehicle.
(2) Except when overtaking and passing on the right is permitted, the driver of an overtaken vehicle shall give way to the right in favor of the overtaking vehicle on audible signal and shall not increase the speed of his or her vehicle until completely passed by the overtaking vehicle.
(3) For purposes of a vehicle overtaking and passing a bicycle, a safe distance shall mean not less than three feet on any of the following:
(a). A roadway that has a marked bicycle lane.
(b). A roadway without a marked bicycle lane if the roadway has a marked speed limit of 45 miles per hour or less and the roadway does not have a double yellow line separating cars from oncoming traffic indicating a no passing zone.
(4) Subdivision (3) shall only apply when a cyclist is riding within two feet of the right shoulder of the roadway.
Source: official Alabama text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 32-5A-82
What does Code of Alabama § 32-5A-82 cover?
Section 32-5A-82 ("Overtaking Vehicle on Left.") is part of the Code of Alabama, the codified statutory law of Alabama. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Alabama § 32-5A-82?
A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 32-5A-82" (Alabama). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Alabama law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Alabama official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Alabama attorney.
How does Alabama § 32-5A-82 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Alabama can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Alabama.