A broken line next to a solid line indicates that traffic in the lane with the broken line

The presence of a broken line next to a solid line provides specific guidance regarding lane usage and passing laws. When traffic is positioned next to a solid yellow line, it indicates that the traffic on the side with the solid line is prohibited from passing. Conversely, the lane next to the broken line is permitted to pass, making it clear that vehicles in that lane have the allowance to move past slower traffic when conditions are safe and it's legal to do so.

This form of lane marking is designed to enhance safety by clearly delineating which lanes have the flexibility for overtaking. Thus, the broken line indicates a potential for movement while the solid line serves as a restriction, reinforcing the rules of the road to prevent unsafe maneuvers.