Michigan § 257.636 - Overtaking and passing of vehicles proceeding in same direction; overtaking a bicycle proceeding in same direction; violation as civil infraction.
Full text of Michigan Michigan Compiled Laws § 257.636 — Overtaking and passing of vehicles proceeding in same direction; overtaking a bicycle proceeding in same direction; violation as civil infraction., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 257.636. Overtaking and passing of vehicles proceeding in same direction; overtaking a bicycle proceeding in same direction; violation as civil infraction.
(1) The following rules govern the overtaking and passing of vehicles proceeding in the same direction, subject to sections 637 to 643a:
(a) The driver of a vehicle overtaking another vehicle proceeding in the same direction shall pass at a safe distance to the left of that vehicle, and when safely clear of the overtaken vehicle shall take up a position as near the right-hand edge of the main traveled portion of the highway as is practicable.
(b) 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 and shall not increase the speed of his or her vehicle until completely passed by the overtaking vehicle.
(2) The driver of a motor vehicle overtaking a bicycle proceeding in the same direction shall pass at a safe distance of at least 3 feet to the left of that bicycle or, if it is impracticable to pass the bicycle at a distance of 3 feet to the left, at a safe distance to the left of that bicycle at a safe speed, and when safely clear of the overtaken bicycle shall take up a position as near the right-hand edge of the main traveled portion of the highway as is practicable.
(3) Notwithstanding section 640, if it is safe to do so, the driver of a vehicle overtaking a bicycle proceeding in the same direction may overtake and pass the bicycle in a no-passing zone.
(4) A person who violates this section is responsible for a civil infraction.
Source: official Michigan text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan § 257.636
What does Michigan Compiled Laws § 257.636 cover?
Section 257.636 ("Overtaking and passing of vehicles proceeding in same direction; overtaking a bicycle proceeding in same direction; violation as civil infraction.") is part of the Michigan Compiled Laws, the codified statutory law of Michigan. 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 Michigan § 257.636?
A common citation format is "Michigan Compiled Laws § 257.636" (Michigan). 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 Michigan law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Michigan official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Michigan attorney.
How does Michigan § 257.636 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Michigan 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 Michigan.