What does a single dashed white line separating traffic mean?
- Drivers may pass, even if it could be dangerous.
- Lanes move in opposite directions.
- Drivers may not pass.
- Drivers may pass if it is safe to do so. ✓
Answer: D. Drivers may pass if it is safe to do so.
A single dashed (broken) white line means drivers may pass or change lanes when it is safe to do so.
Why this is the answer
The handbook explains that white lane lines separate traffic moving the same direction, and a single broken white line may be crossed to change lanes when it is safe. That makes the safe-to-do-so condition part of the rule itself, not a suggestion. The line permits the move but does not override your duty to check that the lane change or pass can be done safely.
Why the other answers are wrong
- A. Drivers may pass, even if it could be dangerous. — The handbook ties crossing a broken white line to safety, so the permission never applies when the move would be dangerous.
- B. Lanes move in opposite directions. — Lanes moving in opposite directions are separated by yellow lines, while white lines divide traffic going the same way.
- C. Drivers may not pass. — That describes a solid line, which you should not cross unless you must to avoid a hazard, not a single broken one.
Remember it
White means same direction as you, and a broken white line is the one you are allowed to cross when the lane is clear.