Tennessee § 55-8-117 - Overtaking and passing of vehicles.
Full text of Tennessee Tennessee Code Annotated § 55-8-117 — Overtaking and passing of vehicles., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 55-8-117. Overtaking and passing of vehicles.
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: 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; and 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 the overtaken vehicle until completely passed by the overtaking vehicle. Acts 1955, ch. 329, § 16; T.C.A., § 59-817.
Source: official Tennessee text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Tennessee § 55-8-117
What does Tennessee Code Annotated § 55-8-117 cover?
Section 55-8-117 ("Overtaking and passing of vehicles.") is part of the Tennessee Code Annotated, the codified statutory law of Tennessee. 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 Tennessee § 55-8-117?
A common citation format is "Tennessee Code Annotated § 55-8-117" (Tennessee). 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 Tennessee law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Tennessee official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Tennessee attorney.
How does Tennessee § 55-8-117 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Tennessee 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 Tennessee.