North Dakota § 39-10-08 - Drive on right side of roadway - Exceptions

Full text of North Dakota North Dakota Century Code § 39-10-08 — Drive on right side of roadway - Exceptions, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 39-10-08. Drive on right side of roadway - Exceptions

1. Upon all roadways of sufficient width a vehicle must be driven upon the right half of the roadway, except as follows: a. When overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction under the rules governing such movement; b. When an obstruction exists making it necessary to drive to the left of the center of the highway; provided, any person so doing shall yield the right of way to all vehicles traveling in the proper direction upon the unobstructed portion of the highway within such distance as to constitute an immediate hazard; c. Upon a roadway divided into three marked lanes for traffic under the rules applicable thereon; or d. Upon a roadway restricted to one-way traffic. 2. Upon all roadways any vehicle proceeding at less than the normal speed of traffic at the time and place and under the conditions then existing must be driven in the right-hand lane then available for traffic, or as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway, except when overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction or when preparing for a left turn in an intersection or into a private road or driveway. 3. Upon any roadway having four or more lanes for moving traffic and providing for two-way movement of traffic, no vehicle may be driven to the left of the centerline of the roadway, except when authorized by official traffic-control devices designating certain lanes to the left side of the center of the roadway for use by traffic not otherwise permitted to use such lanes, or except as permitted under subdivision b of subsection 1. However, this subsection may not be construed as prohibiting the crossing of the centerline in making a left turn into or from an alley, private road, or driveway.

Source: official North Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About North Dakota § 39-10-08

What does North Dakota Century Code § 39-10-08 cover?

Section 39-10-08 ("Drive on right side of roadway - Exceptions") is part of the North Dakota Century Code, the codified statutory law of North Dakota. 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 North Dakota § 39-10-08?

A common citation format is "North Dakota Century Code § 39-10-08" (North Dakota). 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 North Dakota law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the North Dakota official source linked on this page or consult a licensed North Dakota attorney.

How does North Dakota § 39-10-08 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in North Dakota 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 North Dakota.