Can I get a ticket in SC for switching lanes in an intersection? Here’s what the law says
For many drivers, navigating the road is second nature. With daily commutes and routine routes, it’s easy to overlook some of the finer points of traffic laws, especially at intersections, where quick decisions and bad habits can lead to trouble.
Simple actions, like switching lanes, can lead to safety issues for drivers if they aren’t cautious of the consequences for violating certain traffic laws.
Proper lane changing is an important aspect of driving safely, especially in areas with heavy traffic. Here’s what to know about changing lanes at an intersection and whether you could get a ticket for it in South Carolina.
Is changing lanes in an intersection illegal in SC?
South Carolina holds no explicit law regarding lane changes at an intersection. However, doing so without signaling or without ensuring it can be done safely is a violation of state traffic codes — and it may earn you a ticket.
Several laws work together to address this issue:
Under Section 56-5-2150, a driver must:
- Not move right or left on a roadway unless the movement can be made with reasonable safety.
- Use a turn signal continuously for at least 100 feet before making a lane change or turn.
- Not stop or slow suddenly without signaling to drivers behind.
Violating this section comes with a $25 fine.
In addition, according to Section 56-5-1900, drivers must:
- Drive entirely within a single lane and not change lanes until it is safe to do so.
- Follow any posted signs or traffic control devices that prohibit lane changes.
Section 56-5-1840 also states that when passing another vehicle:
- You must pass on the left and at a safe distance.
- Do not return to the right side of the road until you’re safely ahead of the vehicle you passed.
From oncoming traffic, limited visibility and general congestion, switching lanes in an intersection is risky and could result in a ticket if done so unsafely.
Other South Carolina traffic laws at intersections
A few other state laws for drivers at intersections include:
- Section 56-5-2310: When two vehicles approach or enter an intersection from different highways at roughly the same time, the driver on the left must yield to the vehicle on the right.
- Section 56-5-2320: A driver intending to turn left at an intersection, or into an alley, private road, or driveway must yield the right-of-way to oncoming vehicles that are already in the intersection, or close enough to pose an immediate hazard.
- Section 56-5-2735: No driver should enter an intersection, crosswalk or railroad crossing unless there is enough space on the other side to accommodate their vehicle to avoid blocking the roadway.
