Driving on the wrong side of the road in Georgia is a crime, even when a road does not have marked lanes of traffic. There are a few specific exceptions to Georgia’s driving on the wrong side of the road laws.
Penalties for Driving on the Wrong Side of the Road
Under Georgia Code § 40-6-40, all vehicles are to drive on the right side of the roadway. If a driver violates this law, their actions are illegal. The penalties for traveling on the wrong side of the road in Georgia depend on each specific situation.
Fines
If a driver turns onto a road, immediately realizes their mistake, and fixes, an officer might decide to either give a warning or a ticket for the violation. Fines for driving the wrong way on a one-way road offense typically range between $150-325, but that can vary based on the area where you were stopped and whether or not other offenses were involved. The law for driving on a one-way road can be found under Georgia Code § 41-6-47(b).
For example, if someone was on the wrong side of a highway because they were under the influence of alcohol, they would face much higher penalties on top of the wrong side violation.
If there was no clear sign showing a road was one-way or the driver had another legitimate reason for being on the wrong side of the road, they might be able to dispute the fine.
Points on Driving Record
If a driver is convicted of driving the wrong way on a one-way road, they would receive three points on their driving record. The driver can also expect their insurance premiums to increase after this offense. They may be able to complete a traffic safety school for a violation reduction if they have not already done so within the last five years.
Exceptions to Driving on the Wrong Side of the Road Laws in Georgia
Georgia law gives a few exceptions for its “driving on the right side of the road” law. A driver is able to move into the left lane of traffic when:
- Overtaking or passing another vehicle traveling in the same direction (and under the rules of passing)
- There is an obstruction that forces them to drive to the left of the center of the highway (as long as they yield to vehicles traveling in the proper direction)
- On a roadway with three marked lanes of traffic
- On a one-way road
- Preparing for a left turn at an intersection or onto a private driveway or roadway
- Official traffic-control devices have designated specific lanes to the left of the center of the road on a roadway with four or more lanes of traffic and two-way movement
Talk to a Georgia Car Accident Lawyer for Free Today
Traveling on the wrong side of the road in Georgia can lead to disastrous consequences, such as deadly head-on collisions. If you or a loved one was injured as a result of someone not following these Georgia laws, John Foy & Associates can help. We have 20 plus years of experience helping car accident victims win the compensation they deserve.
Call us today at (404) 400-4000 or contact us online and we’ll give you a FREE consultation to discuss the details of your accident. Call (404) 400-4000 to get started today.