§ 17-47. Overtaking, passing regulations.
(a)
The following rules shall govern the overtaking and passing of vehicles proceeding in the same direction subject to those limitations, exceptions and special rules as provided for in the following paragraphs of this section:
(1)
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.
(2)
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 his vehicle until completely passed by the overtaking vehicle.
(b)
No vehicle shall be driven to the left side of the center of the roadway in overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction at an intersection or unless such left side is clearly visible and is free of oncoming traffic for a sufficient distance ahead to permit such overtaking and passing to be completely made without interfering with the safe operation of any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction or any vehicle overtaken. In every event the overtaking vehicle must return to the right-hand side of the roadway before coming within one hundred (100) feet of any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction.
(c)
No vehicle shall, in overtaking and passing another vehicle or at any other time, be driven to the left side of the roadway under the following conditions:
(1)
When approaching the crest of a grade or upon a curve in the roadway where the driver's view along the highway is obstructed.
(2)
When approaching within one hundred (100) feet of any bridge, viaduct or tunnel or when approaching within one hundred (100) feet of or traversing any intersection or railroad grade crossing.
(3)
Where official signs are in place directing that traffic keep to the right, or a distinctive centerline is marked, which distinctive line also directs traffic is declared in the sign manual adopted by the state highway commission.
State law reference
Similar provisions, MCA 1972, §§ 63-3-609, 63-3-611; provision permitting passing on the right in certain circumstances, MCA 1972, § 63-3-613.