Washington DC
Moving Violation Laws – Washington DC
CHAPTER 22 MOVING VIOLATIONS
Secs.
- 2200 Speed Restrictions
- 2201 Driving on the Right Side of the Roadway: Proper Use of the Roadway
- 2202 Overtaking and passing
- 2203 Turning at Intersections
- 2204 Turning Requirements and Restrictions
- 2205 Proper Signals for Turning and Stopping
- 2206 Starting, Stopping, and Backing
- 2207 Right-of-Way: Between Intersections
- 2208 Right-of-Way: Intersections
- 2209 Right-of-way: School Buses
- 2210 Emergency Vehicles and Apparatus
- 2211 Streetcars, Railroad Trains, and Safety Zones
- 2212 Coasting
- 2213 Obstruction of Driver’s View or Driving Mechanism: Improper Riding
- 2214 Entering and Leaving a Vehicle: Vehicle Doors
- 2215 Riding on Motorcycles
- 2216 Railroad Crossings
- 2217 Closed Streets, Play Streets, Bus Streets, Bus Restricted Streets
- 2218 Funeral Processions, Parades, and other Authorized Processions
- 2219 Severe Weather Traffic Controls: Snow Emergency Route
- 2220 Restricted Lanes
- 2221 Miscellaneous Moving Violations
2222-2223 [RESERVED]
2224
2200
2200.1
2200.2
2200.3
Alcoholic Beverages in Motor Vehicles
SPEED RESTRICTIONS
Except when a special hazard exists that requires lower speed for compliance with this section, the limits specified in this section, or established as authorized in § 2200.2, shall be the maximum lawful speeds, and no person shall drive a vehicle on a street or highway at a speed in excess of such maximum limits.
Whenever the Mayor determines, upon the basis of an engineering and traffic investigation made by the Director, that any speed limit set forth in this section is greater or less than is reasonable or safe under the conditions found to exist at any intersection or other place or upon any part of a street or highway, he or she may determine and declare a reasonable and safe speed limit which shall be effective at all times, during the hours of daylight or darkness, or at such other times as may be determined when appropriate signs giving notice of the speed limits are erected at such intersections or other place or part of the highway.
No person shall drive a vehicle on a street or highway at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing.
2200.4
2200.5
2200.6
2200.7 2200.8
2200.9
In every event speed shall be so controlled as may be necessary to avoid colliding with any person, vehicle, or other conveyance on or entering the street or highway in compliance with legal requirements and the duty of all persons to use due care.
The driver of every vehicle shall, consistent with requirements of this section, drive at an appropriate reduced speed when approaching and crossing an intersection or railway grade crossing; when approaching and going around a curve; when approaching a hill crest; when traveling upon any narrow or winding roadway; and when special hazard exists with respect to pedestrians or other traffic, or by reason of weather or highway conditions.
On all streets and highways, unless otherwise designated in accordance with § 2200.2, the maximum lawful speed shall be twenty-five miles per hour (25 mph).
In all alleys, the maximum lawful speed shall be fifteen miles per hour (15 mph).
On all streets adjacent to school buildings and grounds, the maximum lawful speed shall be fifteen miles per hour (15 mph) at the times indicated on official signs. When no times are indicated on official signs, the maximum lawful speed shall be fifteen miles per hour (15 mph) during recess periods or while children are going to or leaving school during the opening or closing hours.
On all streets adjacent to playgrounds designated by official signs, provided the playground is in use, the maximum lawful speed shall be fifteen miles per hour (15 mph).
2200.10 No person shall drive a motor vehicle at such a slow speed as to impede or block the normal and reasonable movement of traffic, except when reduced speed is necessary for safe operation or to be in compliance with the law.
2200.11 Any individual violating any provision of this section, except where the offense constitutes reckless driving or a specific penalty is provided for the offense, shall, upon determination of liability therefor, be subject to a civil fine pursuant to the District of Columbia Traffic Adjudication Act.
2200.12
Any individual who shall drive a vehicle on a street or highway at a speed greater than thirty (30) miles per hour in excess of the legal speed limit for such street or highway shall, upon conviction, be fined not more than three hundred dollars ($ 300) or be imprisoned for not more than ninety (90) days.
2201
2201.1
DRIVING ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE ROADWAY: PROPER USE OF THE ROADWAY
Upon all roadways of sufficient width, a vehicle shall be driven upon the right half of the roadway, except as follows:
2201.2
2201.3
2201.4
2201.5
2201.6
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 plane 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, driveway, or alley.
Drivers of vehicles proceeding in opposite directions shall pass each other to the right, and upon roadways having width for not more than one lane of traffic in each direction, each driver shall give to the other at least one-half of the maintraveled portion of the roadway, as nearly as possible.
Upon a roadway so designated for one-way traffic, a vehicle shall be driven only in the direction designated at all or such times as shall be indicated by official traffic control devices.
A vehicle passing around a rotary traffic island shall be driven only to the right of the island: Provided, that this subsection shall not apply to apparatus engaged in snow removal and control.
Whenever any roadway has been divided into two (2) or more clearly marked lanes for traffic, the following rules, in addition to all other rules consistent with this subtitle shall apply:
(a) (b)
(c) (d)
When overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction under this section governing such movement;
When an obstruction exists making it necessary to drive to the left of the center of the roadway; Provided, that any person so doing shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles traveling in the proper direction upon the unobstructed portion of the roadway within such distance as to constitute an immediate hazard;
Upon a roadway designated and signed for one-way traffic; or
Upon a roadway divided into three (3) marked lanes for traffic under the applicable rules.
2201.7
2201.8
2201.9
Whenever any highway has been divided into two (2) or more roadways by leaving an intervening space or by a physical barrier or clearly indicated dividing section so constructed as to impede vehicular traffic, every vehicle shall be driven only upon the right-hand roadway unless directed or permitted to use another roadway by official traffic control devices or police officer.
No vehicle shall be driven over, across or within any dividing space, barrier or section, except through an opening in the physical barrier or dividing section or space or at a crossover or intersection or an unraised, paved dividing section with pavement markings only, unless otherwise directed by official traffic control devices.
The driver of a vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of the vehicles and the traffic upon and the condition of the roadway.
(a)
(b)
A vehicle shall be driven as nearly as practicable entirely within a single lane and shall not be moved from that lane until the driver has first ascertained that such movement can be made with safety;
Upon a roadway which is divided into three (3) lanes and provides for two-way movement of traffic, a vehicle shall not be driven in the center lane except when:
- (1) Overtaking and passing another vehicle traveling in the same direction when the center lane is clear of traffic within a safe distance;
- (2) In preparation for making or completing a turn; or
- (3) Where the center lane is at the time allocated exclusively to traffic moving in the same direction that the vehicle is proceeding and the allocation is designated by official traffic control devices;
Official traffic control devices may be installed directing specified traffic to use a designated lane or designating the lane to be used by traffic moving in a particular direction regardless of the center of the roadway and drivers of vehicles shall obey the directions of the device; and
Official traffic control devices may be installed prohibiting the changing of lanes on sections of roadways, and drivers of vehicles shall obey the directions of the device.
(c)
(d)
2201.10 The driver of any motor vehicle drawing another vehicle when traveling upon a roadway which is following another motor vehicle drawing another vehicle shall, whenever conditions permit, leave sufficient space so that an overtaking
vehicle may enter and occupy the space in front of the drawing vehicle without danger, except that this shall not prevent a truck or motor vehicle drawing another vehicle from overtaking and passing any like vehicle or other vehicle.
2201.11 No driver shall enter an intersection or marked crosswalk, unless the movement can be made such that the vehicle can completely clear the intersection without obstructing the passage of other vehicles or pedestrians, notwithstanding any official traffic control device indication to proceed. A vehicle shall not enter an intersection to turn right or left unless there is sufficient space on the roadway being entered to accommodate the vehicle.
2201.12 No person shall drive a vehicle onto or from any controlled access roadway except at such entrances and exits as are established by the Director.
2201.13 The Director may regulate or prohibit the use of any controlled-access roadway or highway by any class or kind of traffic that is found to be incompatible with the normal and safe movement of traffic.
2201.14 The Director shall erect and maintain official traffic control devices on the controlled access highway on which such prohibitions are applicable and, when in place, no person shall disobey restrictions on such devices.
2202
2202.1 2202.2
2202.3
OVERTAKING AND PASSING
The rules set forth in this section shall govern the overtaking and passing of vehicles proceeding in the same direction.
The driver of a vehicle overtaking another vehicle proceeding in the same direction shall pass to the left of the vehicle at a safe distance and shall not again drive to the right side of the roadway until safely clear of the overtaken vehicle.
No vehicle shall at any time be driven to the left side of the roadway under the following conditions; Provided, that these restrictions shall not apply to driving on a one-way roadway:
(a)
(b)
(c) (d)
When approaching the crest of a grade or upon a curve in the highway where the driver’s view is obstructed within such distance as to create a hazard if another vehicle approaches from the opposite direction;
When approaching within one hundred feet (100 ft.) of or while traversing any intersection or railroad grade crossing;
On the roadway of any bridge, viaduct, or tunnel; and
On the approach roadway within one hundred feet (100 ft.) of any bridge, viaduct, or tunnel.
2202.4
2202.5
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 or her vehicle until completely passed by the overtaking vehicle.
The driver of a vehicle may overtake and pass upon the right of another vehicle only under the following conditions:
2202.6
2202.7
2202.8 2202.9
2203
2203.1
The driver of a vehicle may overtake and pass another vehicle on the right only under conditions permitting such movement in safety. In no event shall the passing movement be made by driving off the pavement or main-traveled portion of the roadway.
No vehicle shall be driven to the left side of the center of the roadway while overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction unless the left side is clearly visible and is free of oncoming traffic for a sufficient distance ahead to permit the overtaking and passing to be completed without interfering with the safe operation of any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction or any vehicle overtaken.
In every event, an overtaking vehicle must return to the right handside of the roadway before coming within one hundred feet (100 ft.) of any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction.
On any street where official traffic control devices have been erected giving notice that bicycles are entitled to the use of the full right-hand lane then available for moving traffic, the driver of a motor vehicle shall not drive within that right hand lane while overtaking or passing a bicycle being driven in that lane, and after overtaking or passing, shall not drive into that right-hand lane until safely clear of the overtaken bicycle.
TURNING AT INTERSECTIONS
The driver of a vehicle intending to turn at an intersection shall do so as set forth in this section, unless a different method of turning is directed by buttons, markers, or signs at the intersection.
(a) (b)
(c)
When the vehicle overtaken is making or about to make a left turn;
On a street or highway with unobstructed pavement not occupied by parked vehicles and of sufficient width for two (2) or more lines of moving vehicles in each direction; and
On a one-way street or upon any roadway upon which traffic is restricted to one direction of movement; where the roadway is free from obstructions and of sufficient width for two (2) or more lines of moving vehicles.
2203.2
2203.3 2203.4
2203.5
2203.6
2203.7
2203.8
2203.9
Where a specific method of turning at an intersection is indicated by buttons, markers, or signs, turns shall be made in accordance with the directions of those buttons, markers, or signs.
Both the approach for a right turn and a right turn shall be made as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge or the roadway.
Approach for a left turn from a two-way street into a two-way street shall be made in that portion of the right half of the roadway nearest the center line of the roadway, and after entering the intersection the left turn shall be made so as to leave the intersection to the right of the center line of the roadway being entered.
Approach for a left turn from a two-way street into a one-way street shall be made in that portion of the right half of the roadway nearest the center line of the roadway and by passing to the right of the center line where it enters the intersection.
Approach for a left turn from a one-way street into a two-way street shall be made in that portion of the roadway as close as practicable to the left-hand curb or edge of the roadway. After entering the intersection the left turn shall be made so as to leave the intersection to the right of the center line of the roadway be engendered.
Where both streets or roadways are one-way, both the approach for a left turn and a left turn shall be made as close as practicable to the left-hand curb or edge of the roadway.
No left turn shall be made from a “service” roadway; Provided, that a vehicle turning from “service” roadway into a “through” roadway so as to proceed in the same general direction shall not be considered to be making a left turn.
At intersections where “cut-off” roadways have been provided to facilitate a right turn, all vehicles emerging from such “cut-off” roadways shall turn to the right.
2203.10 On streets designated under this subtitle as UNBALANCED TRAFFIC LANES, and during the hours provided in the applicable section for such streets, the word “centerline,” as used in this section, shall mean the line between the two (2) directions of flow on such streets during the designated hours.
2203.11 No person shall turn a vehicle at an intersection unless the vehicle is in proper position upon the roadway, as required in this section.
2204
2204.1
2204.2
2204.3
2204.4
2204.5
2204.6
2204.7
2204.8 2204.9
2205
2205.1
2205.2
TURNING REQUIREMENTS AND RESTRICTIONS
No vehicle shall be turned so as to proceed in the opposite direction upon any curve, or upon the approach to or near the crest of a grade, where such vehicle cannot be seen by the driver of any other vehicle approaching from either direction within five hundred feet (500 ft.).
No person shall turn a vehicle to enter a private road or driveway or otherwise turn a vehicle from a direct course or move right or left upon a roadway unless and until such movement can be made with reasonable safety.
No person shall turn any vehicle to enter a private road or driveway, or otherwise turn a vehicle from a direct course or move right or left upon a roadway without giving an appropriate signal in the manner provided in this chapter if any other traffic may be affected by the movement.
A signal of intention to turn right or left when required shall be given continuously during not less than the last one hundred feet (100 ft.) traveled by the vehicle before turning.
When authorized markers, buttons, or other indications are placed within or between intersections indicating the course to be traveled by vehicles, no driver of a vehicle shall disobey the directions of the indications.
Whenever authorized signs are erected indicating that “NO RIGHT TURN” or “NO LEFT TURN” or “NO U-TURN” is permitted, no driver of a vehicle shall disobey the directions of any such sign.
No vehicle shall make a U-turn so as to proceed in the opposite direction at any intersection controlled by traffic lights or police officer, or on a crosswalk adjacent to such an intersection.
The driver of any vehicle shall not turn a vehicle so as to proceed in the
opposite direction unless such movement can be made in safety and without interfering with other traffic.
The provisions of this section shall not apply to streetcars.
PROPER SIGNALS FOR TURNING AND STOPPING
Required stop or turn signals shall be given by using the hand and arm, by a signal lamp or lamps, or by means of a mechanical signal device, except as otherwise provided in this section.
Any motor vehicle in use on a highway shall be equipped with signal lamp(s) or mechanical signal device when required by chapter 6 of this title. If a any motor
2205.3 2205.4
2206
2206.1 2206.2
2206.3
2207
2207.1
2207.2
2207.3
vehicle is required to be equipped with a signal lamp(s) or mechanical signal devices, the required signal shall be given by means of lamps or devices.
[Deleted] D.C. Law 1-110, 23 DCR 4954 (January 21, 1977)All signals required by this chapter to be given by hand-and-arm shall be given from the left side of the vehicle in the following manner and the signals shall indicate as follows:
- (a) LEFT TURN: Hand and arm extended horizontally;
- (b) RIGHT TURN: Hand and arm extended upward; and (c) STOP OR DECREASE SPEED: Hand and arm extended downward.
STARTING, STOPPING, AND BACKING
No person shall start a vehicle which is stopped, standing, or parked unless and until the movement can be made with reasonable safety.
No person shall stop or suddenly decrease the speed of a vehicle without first giving an appropriate signal in the manner provided in this chapter to the driver of any vehicle immediately to the rear when there is opportunity to give such signal.
The driver of a vehicle shall not back the vehicle unless the backing movement can be made with reasonable safety and without interfering with other traffic.
RIGHT-OF-WAY: BETWEEN INTERSECTIONS
The driver of a vehicle emerging from an alley, building, private road, or driveway shall stop the vehicle immediately prior to driving onto a sidewalk or onto the sidewalk area extending across the alley, building entrance, private road, or driveway, or in the event there is no sidewalk area, shall stop at the point nearest the street to be entered where the driver has a view of approaching traffic.
The driver of a vehicle crossing a sidewalk or sidewalk area shall yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian and all other traffic using the sidewalk or sidewalk area.
The driver of a vehicle about to enter for cross a roadway from an alley or from any place other than another roadway shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles approaching on the roadway to be entered or crossed.
2207.4
2208
2208.1
2208.2
2208.3
2208.4
2208.5
2208.6
The driver of a vehicle intending to leave a public roadway by turning left between intersections shall yield the right-of-way to any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction which is so close as to constitute an immediate hazard.
RIGHT-OF-WAY: INTERSECTIONS
When two (2) vehicles approach or enter an intersection from different highways at approximately the same time, the driver of the vehicle on the left shall yield the right-of-way to the vehicle on the right.
The driver of a vehicle intending to turn to the left shall yield the right-of-way to any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction which is so close as to constitute an immediate hazard.
Except when directed to proceed by a police officer, a police cadet or an official traffic control device, every driver of a vehicle approaching a STOP sign shall stop at a clearly marked stop line, but if none, before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection, or if no crosswalk, then at the point nearest the intersecting roadway where the driver has a view of approaching traffic on the intersecting roadway before entering the intersecting roadway.
After having stopped for a stop sign, the driver shall yield the right-of-way to any traffic in the intersection or approaching on another roadway so closely as to constitute an immediate hazard during the time when the driver is moving across or within the intersection or junction of roadways. The driver shall yield the right-of-way to pedestrians.
The driver of a vehicle approaching a YIELD sign shall in obedience to the sign, slow down to a speed reasonable for the existing conditions and, if required for safety to stop, shall stop at a clearly marked stop line, but if none, before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection, or if no crosswalk, then at the point nearest the intersecting roadway where the driver has a view of approaching traffic on the intersecting roadway before entering the intersecting roadway.
After slowing or stopping for a yield sign, the driver of a vehicle shall yield the right-of-way to any traffic in the intersection or approaching on another roadway so closely as to constitute an immediate hazard during the time the driver is moving across or within the intersection or junction of roadways. The driver shall yield the right-of-way to pedestrians; Provided, that if the driver is involved in a collision with a vehicle in the intersection or with a pedestrian, after driving past a YIELD sign without stopping, the collision shall be considered prima facie evidence of failure to yield the right-of-way.
2208.7
2208.8
2208.9
The driver of a vehicle approaching a traffic circle shall yield the right-of-way to traffic already within the circle unless official traffic control devices indicate otherwise.
The driver of a vehicle entering a freeway by way of an access ramp shall yield the right-of-way to traffic on the freeway.
The presence of an appropriate official sign underneath an official STOP sign may permit a vehicle to turn right without stopping.
2208.10 The right-of-way rules set forth in § § 2208.1 and 2208.2 shall be modified at through highways and otherwise as stated in § § 2207 through 2210 and 2103.
2209
2209.1
2209.2
2210
2210.1
2210.2
2210.3
RIGHT-OF-WAY: SCHOOL BUSES
The driver of a vehicle approaching from any direction a school bus on which a warning light is flashing, shall prepare to stop the vehicle and shall bring the vehicle to a complete stop not less than fifteen feet (15 ft.) from the school bus; Provided, that this requirement shall not be complied with by a driver approaching a school bus from the opposite direction on a street with a median strip divider.
A driver who has stopped for a school bus, in accordance with this section, shall not proceed until the visual signals are no longer actuated.
EMERGENCY VEHICLES AND APPARATUS
Upon the immediate approach of an authorized emergency vehicle making use of audible and visual signals meeting the requirements of this title, or of a police vehicle properly and lawfully making use of an audible signal only, the driver of every other vehicle shall yield the right-of-way and shall immediately drive to a position parallel to, and as close as possible to, the right-hand edge or curb of the roadway, clear of any intersection, and shall stop and remain in such position until the authorized emergency vehicle has passed, except when otherwise directed by a police officer.
Upon the approach of an authorized emergency vehicle, the operator of a streetcar shall immediately stop the car clear of any intersection and keep it in such position until the authorized emergency vehicle has passed, except when otherwise directed by a police officer.
This section shall not operate to relieve the driver of an authorized emergency vehicle from the duty to drive with due regard for the safety of all persons using the highway.
2210.4
2210.5
2211
2211.1
The driver of any vehicle other than one on official business shall not follow any fire apparatus traveling in response to a fire alarm closer than five hundred feet (500 ft.) or drive into or park such vehicle within the block where fire apparatus has stopped in answer to a fire alarm.
No vehicle shall be driven over any unprotected hose of a fire department when laid down on any street, private driveway, or streetcar track to be used at any fire or alarm of fire without the consent of a police or fire department official.
STREETCARS, RAILROAD TRAINS, AND SAFETY ZONES
The driver of a vehicle shall not overtake and pass upon the left nor drive upon the left side of any streetcar proceeding in the same direction, whether the streetcar is actually in motion or temporarily at rest, except in the following instances:
2211.2
2211.3
2211.4
2211.5
2211.6
The driver of any vehicle when permitted to overtake and pass to the left of a streetcar which has stopped for the purpose of receiving or discharging any passenger shall reduce speed, shall yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in accordance with this subtitle, and may proceed only upon exercising due caution for pedestrians.
The driver of any vehicle proceeding upon any streetcar tracks in front of a streetcar on a street, shall remove the vehicle from the track as soon as practicable after signal from the operator of the streetcar.
The driver of a vehicle overtaking on the right of any streetcar stopped or about to stop for the purpose of receiving or discharging any passenger shall stop the vehicle at least five feet (5 ft.) to the rear of the door of the streetcar and remain standing until all passengers have boarded the car or, upon a lighting, have reached a place of safety.
Notwithstanding the requirements of § 2211.4, where a safety zone has been established, a vehicle need not be brought to a stop before passing any such safety zone, whether occupied by a streetcar or not, but must proceed at a speed no greater than is reasonable and proper and with due caution for the safety of pedestrians.
No vehicle shall at any time be driven through or within a safety zone.
(a) (b) (c)
When directed to do so by a police officer; When driving on a one-way street; or
When driving on a street where the tracks are so located as to prevent compliance with this subsection.
2211.7
2211.8
2212
2212.1 2212.2
2213
2213.1
2213.2
2213.3
2213.4 2213.5
2213.6
It shall be unlawful for the directing officer or operator of any railroad train or streetcar to direct the operation of or to operate the train or streetcar in such a manner as to prevent the use of any street for purposes of travel for a period of longer than five (5) minutes; Provided, that this subsection shall not apply to trains or cars in motion, other than those engaged in switching.
It shall be unlawful for any streetcar to stop within an intersection or a crosswalk for the purpose of receiving or discharging passengers.
COASTING
The driver of any motor vehicle when traveling upon a down grade shall not coast, with the gears of the vehicle in neutral.
The driver of a commercial motor vehicle when traveling upon a downgrade shall not coast with the clutch disengaged.
OBSTRUCTION OF DRIVER’S VIEW OR DRIVING MECHANISM: IMPROPER RIDING
No person shall drive a vehicle when it is so loaded as to obstruct the view of the driver to the front or sides of the vehicle or when it is so loaded as to interfere with the driver’s control over the driving mechanism of the vehicle.
No person shall drive a vehicle with more than three (3) persons in the front seat when such occupancy obstructs the view of the driver to the front or sides of the vehicle or interferes with the driver’s control over the driving mechanism of the vehicle.
No passenger in a vehicle or streetcar shall ride in such position as to interfere with the driver’s or operator’s view ahead or to the sides, or to interfere with control over the driving mechanism of the vehicle or streetcar.
An operator shall, when operating a vehicle, give full time and attention to the operation of the vehicle.
No driver of any motor vehicle in motion shall permit any person or persons to stand on the running board and no person shall ride on the running board when the vehicle is in motion.
No person shall ride on any portion of any vehicle which is not designed or intended for the use of passengers, and no driver of a vehicle shall permit such riding. This provision shall not apply to an employee engaged in the necessary
2213.7
2213.8
2214
2214.1 2214.2
2214.3 2214.4
2215
2215.1
2215.2
discharge of his or her duty or to persons riding within truck bodies in space intended for materials.
No vehicle operated on the highways of the District shall have any object attached to or suspended from the rear view mirror or rear view mirror bracket; or have any object attached to or suspended from the windshield, the rear window, the front side windows, or the frame of the windshield, rear window, or any front side window.
Subsection 2213.7 shall not be construed to prohibit the hanging of clothing or other objects from a hanger attached to either of the rearside windows of a vehicle, nor shall it be construed to prohibit the display of a sticker authorized or required to be displayed by the Joint Board, Council, Mayor, Director, or Public Service Commission.
ENTERING AND LEAVING A VEHICLE: VEHICLE DOORS
No person shall board or alight from a vehicle while the vehicle is in motion.
No driver shall permit any person to board or alight from the vehicle he or she is driving while the vehicle is in motion.
No motor vehicle shall be operated with any front door(s), sidedoor(s), or rear door(s) tied open or swinging.
No person shall open any door of a vehicle unless it is reasonably safe to do so and can be done without interfering with moving traffic or pedestrians and with safetytosuchpersonandpassengers. Nopersonshallleaveadooropenona side of a vehicle available to moving traffic for a period of time longer than necessary to receive or discharge passengers.
RIDING ON MOTORCYCLES
A person operating a motorcycle shall ride only upon the permanent and regular seat attached thereto, and such operator shall not carry any other person nor shall any other person ride on a motorcycle unless such motorcycle is designed to carry more than one person.
If a motorcycle is equipped to carry more than one person, the-passenger may ride upon the permanent, regular seat if designed for two (2) persons, upon another seat firmly attached in a position to the rear or side of the motorcycle and provided with foot rests and handgrips, or in a side car attached to the motorcycle.
2215.3
2215.4 2215.5
2215.6
2216
2216.1
2216.2
No person shall operate or ride upon a motorcycle unless wearing a protective helmet in the manner for which the helmet was designed and of a type approved by the Director. [See chapter 7]
No person shall operate a motorcycle unless he or she wears goggles or a face shield of a type approved by the Director. [See chapter 7]
The provisions of § 2215.4 shall not apply to an operator of a motorcycle equipped with a wind screen or shield of a type approved by the Director in accordance with chapter 7, nor shall it apply to an operator of a motorcycle who wears spectacles with safety glass lenses during the operation.
The provisions of the Point System Regulations for the District of Columbia, shall not be applicable to violations of this section.
RAILROAD CROSSINGS
Whenever any person driving a vehicle approaches a railroad grade crossing under any of the circumstances stated in this section, the driver of the vehicle shall stop within fifty feet (50 ft.), but not less than fifteen feet (15 ft.), from the nearest rail of the railroad, and shall not proceed until it can be done safely.
The requirements of § 2216.1 shall apply in the following circumstances:
2217
2217.1
CLOSED STREETS, PLAY STREETS, BUS STREETS, BUS RESTRICTED STREETS
Whenever authorized signs are erected indicating any street or part of the street is a play street, no person shall drive a vehicle upon any such street or portion of the street except drivers of vehicles with a destination on that street or whose residences are within the closed area, and then the driver shall exercise the greatest care in driving upon that street or portion of street.
(a) (b) (c)
(d)
A clearly visible electric or mechanical signal device gives warning of the immediate approach of a railroad train;
A crossing gate is lowered or when a human flagman gives or continues to give a signal of the approach or passage of a railroad train;
A railroad train approaching within approximately fifteen hundred feet (1500 ft.) of the highway crossing emits a signal audible from that distance, and the railroad by reason of its speed or nearness to the crossing, is an immediate hazard; and
An approaching railroad train is plainly visible and is in hazardous proximity to the crossing.
2217.2 2217.3
2217.4 2217.5
2217.6 2217.7
2217.8
2218
2218.1
2218.2
2218.3
No person shall operate a vehicle on a street that has been closed to vehicular traffic except as specifically permitted by an official traffic control device.
No person shall drive any vehicle across or over any public street at which there is any official barrier, sign, or authorized person indicating that the street is closed, except as otherwise provided.
The speed limit for the streets designated by § § 2217.1, 2217.2 and 2217.3 shall be fifteen (15) miles per hour.
No vehicle except buses proceeding on a designated bus route, bicycles, personal mobility devices, and authorized emergency vehicles shall travel on those streets or portions of streets designated as bus streets or bus lanes except as provided in §§ 2217.6, 2217.7, 4005 and 4006.
Vehicles may use a single block portion of a bus street if destined for existing parking facilities within the limits of that single block portion of the bus street.
Vehicles delivering or picking up goods within the limits of a single block portion of a bus street where direct access from adjacent streets or alleys is not provided may travel on that single block portion of the bus street.
Whenever authorized signs are erected to restrict buses from any street or portion of street, no person shall operate a bus upon such street or portion of the street at anytime unless otherwise excepted as stated on official authorized sign.
FUNERAL PROCESSIONS, PARADES, AND OTHER AUTHORIZED PROCESSIONS
Processions and parades, except funerals, shall not be allowed except by permit issued by the Chief of Police, which permit shall designate the time and route of such procession or parade, and no part of the procession or parade shall move except according to the terms of the permit.
No driver of a vehicle shall drive between the vehicles comprising a funeral or other authorized procession while they are in motion and when the vehicles are conspicuously designated as required by this chapter. The provision shall not apply at intersections where traffic is controlled by traffic control signals or police officers, except as provided in this section.
Each driver in a funeral or other procession shall drive as near to the right-hand edge of the roadway as practicable and shall follow the vehicle ahead as close as is practicable and safe.
2218.4
2218.5 2218.6
2218.7
2218.8
The leading vehicle in a funeral procession shall stop at any intersection where the traffic control device requires such a stop, but after the leading vehicle has entered the intersection, all vehicles in the funeral procession shall continue their passage; Provided, that this subsection shall not apply when there is a funeral escort officer preceding the funeral procession.
A funeral composed of a procession of vehicles in order to be recognized as such, shall display on each vehicle two (2) illuminated headlights.
A funeral procession accompanied by an escort officer shall have the right-of- way and have the right to proceed through an intersection where the traffic control device normally would require a stop.
A funeral escort officer is designated to be a person wearing a name tag on a uniform distinguishable from the Metropolitan Police Department uniform, which identifies by name the person, company, partnership, or corporation by which the escort officer is employed.
A funeral escort officer shall be mounted on a motorcycle equipped with the following special equipment, as well as the standard equipment required by law:
(a)
(b)
(c)
A flashing signal light of a color approved by the Department of Public Works;
A two-way radio sufficient to allow communication with the home office of the person, company, partnership, or corporation; and
A designation of the name of the motor escort person, company, partnership, or corporation.
2218.9
2218.10 The vehicles in a procession returning from a funeral shall not display headlights, except during the hours when lights are required to be displayed on all motor vehicles.
2219 SEVERE WEATHER TRAFFIC CONTROLS: SNOW EMERGENCY ROUTE
2219.1 Between October 15th and April 15th of each year, whenever snow, sleet, or freezing rain is falling within the District or whenever there is a covering or coating of snow, sleet, or ice on any street in the District marked as a Snow Emergency Route, no person in charge of a motor vehicle operated on any such street shall allow the vehicle to become stalled on that street due to the fact that
A funeral escort officer shall not wear sidearms and shall not have the power of
arrest.
2219.2
2219.3
2219.4
the driving wheels of the vehicle are not equipped with tire chains or effective snow tires.
Whenever the Director has announced, pursuant to § 2414, that parking is prohibited on Snow Emergency Routes, and such parking prohibition is in effect with respect to a particular street which has been designated as a Snow Emergency Route, no person in charge of a motor vehicle operated on such street shall allow the vehicle to become stalled on that street due to the fact that the motor fuel supply of the vehicle has been allowed to become exhausted.
Whenever the Director has announced, pursuant to § 2414, that parking is prohibited on Snow Emergency Routes, and such parking prohibition is in effect, the person in charge of a motor vehicle which becomes stalled on any such route, for whatever reason, including, without limitation, a flat tire, shall without delay take action to have the vehicle towed or pushed off the roadway of the Snow Emergency Route; Provided, that nothing in this subsection shall permit the violation of any other law or regulation.
No person shall abandon or leave a motor vehicle in the roadway of a Snow Emergency Route at any time when the parking of motor vehicles on that route has been prohibited pursuant to § 2414; Provided, that a vehicle standing in the roadway of a Snow Emergency Route shall not be considered abandoned or left within the meaning of this subsection in the following circumstances:
2219.5
2219.6
Notwithstanding any other provisions of this title, any unattended vehicle found on any Snow Emergency Route when the parking prohibition is in effect pursuant to § 2417 of this title, may be removed from the route in accordance with § 2421 of this title.
Whenever by reason of the declaration of a weather emergency, Federal and District government employees are dismissed from duty one (1) or more hours in advance of their normal quitting time, those traffic regulations that normally go into effect at 4:00 p.m. shall go into effect the same number of hours in advance of 4:00 p.m. that the Federal and District government employees are
(a)
(b)
If the operator leaves the vehicle only for the purpose of securing assistance and for a time actually necessary to secure such assistance, either to make a telephone call from a nearby public telephone or to go to a nearby garage, gasoline station, or other place of assistance, and if thereafter the operator, without delay, returns to and remains with the stalled vehicle until its removal; and
The operator has, prior to leaving the vehicle, placed on the windshield a note stating the approximate time of his or her departure in search of assistance and the location to which he or she has gone for such assistance.
2219.7
2219.8
2220
2220.1
2220.2
2220.3
2220.4 2220.5 2220.6
2221
2221.1
dismissed in advance of their normal quitting time (for example, and not by way of limitation, “No Standing,” “No Parking,” One-Way Streets, Unbalanced Lanes, and “No Left Turn”).
The traffic regulations advanced in their hours of operation under the provisions of this section shall remain in force until their normal termination at 6:30 p.m., or as may be otherwise indicated at specific locations.
At least one (1) hour’s notice of the advanced operation of traffic regulations, as provided in this section, shall be given the public in the manner required by § 2414.
RESTRICTED LANES
The Director is authorized to designate any traffic lane on any roadway for the exclusive use of a single class or combination of classes of vehicles during certain hours. The Director shall post signs indicating any lanes designated as restricted. The signs shall describe the class or combination of classes of vehicles to which the lane is restricted and the days and hours during which the restrictions are in effect.
During restricted hours, any vehicle may enter a restricted right curb lane solely for the purposes of taking on or discharging passengers or to make a right turn where a right turn is not otherwise prohibited by any official traffic control device.
Vehicles entering a Restricted Lane to make a right turn or to discharge or take on passengers shall be permitted to enter the Restricted Lane only within the same block as the right turn or passengers are to be taken on or discharged.
Vehicles, other than those to which a lane is restricted, are prohibited from continuing through an intersection in a Restricted Lane.
Except as provided in § 2220.2, taxicabs shall not use Restricted Lanes unless transporting at least one paying passenger.
The existence of Restricted Lanes on any roadway does not limit those vehicles for which the restrictions are established solely for use of the Restricted Lanes unless specifically indicated.
MISCELLANEOUS MOVING VIOLATIONS
No vehicle shall be operated or used in such a manner as to cause unnecessary or disturbing noise.
2221.2
2221.3
2221.4
2221.5
When the driver of a vehicle desires to park at the curb when there is room enough for only one (1) car between two (2) other cars, the driver shall drive forward until parallel to the car ahead of the space and back cautiously into the parking space.
The driver of a vehicle shall not drive within or across any permanent sidewalk area, except at a permanent or temporary driveway, or under other circumstances specifically provided in this title.
No vehicle shall be operated so that it or the load on it strikes any fixed object or construction, including, but not limited to, a bridge, bay window, tree, or part of any such object, located in or over any street, highway, or alley.
Whenever any vehicle is stopped at a marked crosswalk or at an unmarked crosswalk at any intersection to permit a pedestrian to cross the roadway, the driver of any vehicle approaching from the rear shall not overtake and pass the stopped vehicle.
2222-2223 [RESERVED]
2224
2224.1 2224.2
2224.3
2224.4 2224.5
ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES IN MOTOR VEHICLES
Except as provided in §§ 2224.2 and 2224.3, no person shall operate or ride in a vehicle when any opened alcoholic beverage is in or on the vehicle.
If the vehicle has a trunk, cargo area, or storage compartment that is inaccessible from the passenger area, an opened alcoholic beverage container may be carried in the trunk, cargo area, or storage compartment.
If the vehicle does not have a trunk, cargo area, or storage compartment that is inaccessible from the passenger area, an opened alcoholic beverage may be carried in the vehicle if the container has been capped, corked, or otherwise closed, and the container is completely enclosed in a manner that does not allow a person to consume the alcoholic beverage.
A person operating a vehicle in violation of this section shall be subject to a fine of one hundred dollars ($100).
For purposes of this section, the term “opened alcoholic beverage container” means an alcoholic beverage in a bottle, can, or other container which is open or from which the top, cap, cork, seal, or tab seal has at some time been removed; and the term “alcoholic beverage” means an alcoholic beverage as defined in §
3 of the District of Columbia Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, approved January 24, 1934 (48 Stat. 319; D.C. Code § 25-103).