South Carolina § 56-5-1810 - Drive on the right side of roadways; exceptions.
Full text of South Carolina South Carolina Code of Laws § 56-5-1810 — Drive on the right side of roadways; exceptions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 56-5-1810. Drive on the right side of roadways; exceptions.
(a) Upon all roadways of sufficient width a vehicle shall be driven upon the right half of the roadway except as follows:
1. When overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction under the rules governing such movement.
2. When an obstruction exists making it necessary to drive to the left of the center of the highway. 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 so as not to constitute an immediate hazard.
3. Upon a roadway divided into three marked lanes for traffic under the rules applicable thereon.
4. Upon a roadway restricted to one-way traffic.
(b) 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 shall 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 at an intersection or into a private road or driveway.
(c) Upon any roadway having four or more lanes for moving traffic and providing for two-way movement of traffic, no vehicle shall be driven to the left of the center line 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 item 2 of subsection (a). This subsection shall not be construed as prohibiting the crossing of the center line in making a left turn into or from an alley, private road or driveway.
HISTORY: 1962 Code SECTION 46-381; 1952 Code SECTION 46-381; 1949 (46) 466; 1977 Act No. 143 SECTION 1.
Source: official South Carolina text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Carolina § 56-5-1810
What does South Carolina Code of Laws § 56-5-1810 cover?
Section 56-5-1810 ("Drive on the right side of roadways; exceptions.") is part of the South Carolina Code of Laws, the codified statutory law of South Carolina. 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 South Carolina § 56-5-1810?
A common citation format is "South Carolina Code of Laws § 56-5-1810" (South Carolina). 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 South Carolina law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the South Carolina official source linked on this page or consult a licensed South Carolina attorney.
How does South Carolina § 56-5-1810 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in South Carolina 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 South Carolina.