reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:1-b - Motorcycle-Only Checkpoints Prohibited.

265:1-b Motorcycle-Only Checkpoints Prohibited. –
No law enforcement officer or agency shall establish or conduct motorcycle-only checkpoints.
Source.
2018, 153:1, eff. May 30, 2018.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:1-c - Motorcycle Profiling Prohibited.

265:1-c Motorcycle Profiling Prohibited. –
No state, county, or municipal law enforcement agency shall engage in motorcycle profiling. In this section, "motorcycle profiling" shall mean use of the fact that a person rides a motorcycle or wears motorcycle-related paraphernalia as a basis for deciding to stop and question, take enforcement action, arrest, or search a person or vehicle under the United States Constitution or the New Hampshire constitution.
Source.
2022, 51:1, eff. July 19, 2022.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:1-d - Immigration Checkpoints.

265:1-d Immigration Checkpoints. –
When any state, county, or municipal police department or law enforcement agency is informed by a federal agency of intent to conduct an immigration checkpoint, the department or agency shall give notice to the public within 24 hours of when the checkpoint is scheduled to occur or as soon as is practical. The notice shall disclose, if known, the date, municipality, and geographical area in which the checkpoint will occur. Notice to the public shall be provided by publishing this information on the government agency's website.
Source.
2023, 79:608, eff. July 1, 2023.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:2 - Required Obedience to Traffic Laws; Penalty.

265:2 Required Obedience to Traffic Laws;  Penalty. –
Unless otherwise declared in this chapter with respect to particular offenses, any person who commits any act forbidden or fails to perform any act required in this chapter shall be guilty of a violation.
Source.
RSA 262-A:2. 1963, 330:1. 1973, 529:47. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:3 - Obedience to Police Officers.

265:3 Obedience to Police Officers. –
I. No person shall willfully fail or refuse to comply with any lawful order or direction of any police officer invested by law with authority to direct, control or regulate traffic.
II. The fine for a violation of this section shall be $100.
Source.
RSA 262-A:3. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1. 2005, 177:29, eff. July 1, 2005.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:3-a - Obedience to School Crossing Guards.

265:3-a Obedience to School Crossing Guards. –
I. The driver of any vehicle shall obey the instructions of any school crossing guard invested with authority to direct, control, or regulate traffic. If the school crossing guard is displaying a signal to stop, the driver of a vehicle upon a way shall stop the vehicle at least 25 feet before reaching such school crossing guard. The driver shall not proceed until the school crossing guard indicates that traffic may proceed and until the driver can do so safely.
II. Any person who violates the provisions of this section shall be guilty of a violation and shall be fined not more than $100 for the first offense and not more than $250 for any subsequent offense committed during any calendar year.
Source.
1998, 332:1, eff. Sept. 1, 1998.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:3-b - Obedience to Flagpersons.

265:3-b Obedience to Flagpersons. –
I. The driver of any vehicle shall obey the instructions of any flagperson in the act of directing, controlling, or regulating traffic within any construction, maintenance, or utility work area indicated by official traffic control devices. If the flagperson is displaying a signal to stop, the driver of a vehicle upon a way shall stop the vehicle at least 25 feet before reaching such flagperson. The driver shall not proceed until the flagperson indicates that traffic may proceed and until the driver may do so safely.
II. Any person who violates the provisions of this section shall be guilty of a violation and shall be fined not more than $100 for the first offense and not more than $250 for any subsequent offense committed during any calendar year.
Source.
2001, 36:1, eff. June 8, 2001.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:4 - Disobeying an Officer.

265:4 Disobeying an Officer. –
I. No person, while driving or in charge of a vehicle, shall:
(a) Refuse, when requested by a law enforcement officer, to give his name, address, date of birth, and the name and address of the owner of such vehicle;
(b) Give a false name, date of birth, address, name and address of the owner of such vehicle, or any other false information to a law enforcement officer that would hinder the law enforcement officer from properly identifying the person in charge of such motor vehicle;
(c) Purposely neglect to stop when signaled to stop by any law enforcement officer who is in uniform or who displays his badge conspicuously on the outside of his outer coat or garment, or who signals such person to stop by means of any authorized audible or visual emergency warning signals; or otherwise willfully attempt to elude pursuit by a law enforcement officer by increasing speed, extinguishing headlamps while still in motion or abandoning a vehicle while being pursued;
(d) Refuse, on demand of such officer, to sign his name in the presence of such officer;
(e) Refuse, on demand of such officer, to produce his license to drive such vehicle or his certificate of registration or to permit such officer to take the license or certificate in hand for the purpose of examination;
(f) Refuse or neglect to produce his license when requested by a court or justice, or refuse to surrender to the director or to any authorized employee of the department or other authorized representative of the director any license, registration certificate or number plate upon demand after suspension or revocation of the same.
II. Any person who violates any provision of paragraph I of this section may have his or her license or privilege to drive and any registrations issued in his or her name suspended. In addition, any person who violates the provisions of subparagraphs I (a), (b), (d), (e), or (f) of this section shall be guilty of a class A misdemeanor.
III. (a) In addition to the penalties listed in paragraph II, any person who violates the provisions of subparagraph I(c) shall be guilty of a class A misdemeanor and shall be fined not less than $500.
(b) Any person who violates the provisions of subparagraph I(c), and is involved in a motor vehicle accident which causes serious bodily injury as defined in RSA 625:11, VI while being pursued, shall be guilty of a class B felony.
(c) Any person who violates the provisions of subparagraph I(c), and is involved in a motor vehicle accident which causes the death of another while being pursued, shall be guilty of a class A felony.
Source.
1911, 133:21. 1921, 119:20. PL 102:19. RL 118:21. RSA 262:26. 1955, 143:1. 1981, 146:1; 479:5, 27. 1987, 221:1. 2002, 213:1, 2, eff. Jan. 1, 2003.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:5 - Persons Riding Animals; Driving Animal-Drawn Vehicles.

265:5 Persons Riding Animals;  Driving Animal-Drawn Vehicles. –
Every person riding an animal or driving any animal-drawn vehicle upon a roadway shall be granted all the rights and shall be subject to all of the duties applicable to the driver of a vehicle by this chapter, except those provisions of this chapter which by their very nature can have no application.
Source.
RSA 262-A:4. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:6 - Persons Working on Highways; Exceptions.

265:6 Persons Working on Highways;  Exceptions. –
Unless specifically made applicable, the provisions of this chapter shall not apply to persons, teams, vehicles and other equipment while actually engaged in work upon the surface of a highway when a violation of any of such provisions is reasonably necessary for the completion of such work. The provisions of this chapter relative to civil liability shall apply to such persons and vehicles, and all provisions of the chapter shall apply to such persons and vehicles when traveling to or from such work. This section shall not be construed as exempting any person from the provisions of RSA 265:79-93.
Source.
RSA 262-A:6. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:6-a - Highway Construction and Maintenance.

265:6-a Highway Construction and Maintenance. –
I. The driver of a vehicle shall yield the right-of-way to any authorized vehicle or pedestrian actually engaged in work upon the highway within any construction or maintenance area indicated by official traffic control devices.
II. The driver of a vehicle shall yield the right-of-way to any authorized vehicle obviously and actually engaged in work upon a highway whenever such vehicle displays emergency lights or amber warning lights as authorized under RSA 266:78-a through RSA 266:78-q and shall give wide berth, without endangering oncoming traffic, to highway workers and stationary or moving vehicles owned by or contracted to state or local highway maintenance departments displaying amber warning lights. Any person violating this paragraph shall be fined $150 plus penalty assessment for a first offense and $250 plus penalty assessment for a subsequent offense in a 12-month period.
III. Any offense involving speeding in a highway construction or maintenance zone on a state or interstate highway, manned by workers, shall be a construction work zone driving offense. A person found guilty of an offense shall be fined not less than $250 nor more than $500.
IV. The department of transportation shall post signs notifying motorists of construction or maintenance work zones and construction zone speed limits. The department shall require signs notifying motorists of the increased penalties for a violation of paragraph III.
Source.
1981, 479:28. 1994, 252:1. 2008, 358:14. 2012, 135:1, eff. June 5, 2012. 2015, 112:1, eff. Aug. 7, 2015; 202:2, eff. Jan. 1, 2016.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:7 - Permits for Construction Equipment.

265:7 Permits for Construction Equipment. –
The board or officer having charge of a way or in the case of a state way or way determined by the state highway department to be a through route, the state highway commissioner may issue a permit for the use of construction equipment upon such a way. Such permit shall limit the time within which it shall be in force and during which the ways may be used and shall contain any provisions or conditions necessary for the protection of such ways from injury.
Source.
1905, 86:1. 1911, 133:1. 1913, 81:1. 1915, 129:1. 1917, 229:1. 1919, 161:1. 1921, 119:1. 1923, 75:1. 1925, 25:1; 68:1. PL 99:1. 1927, 52:1. 1929, 43:1. 1935, 73:2, 3. 1939, 47:1; 130:1; 189:1, 2, 3, 5; 190:1. 1941, 98:1; 111:1; 142:2. RL 115:1. 1943, 189:1. 1947, 177:1. 1949, 189:1, 2; 197:1; 212:2; 233:1; 286:4. 1953, 252:3. RSA 259:1, XII. 1981, 146:1. 2006, 317:3, eff. Aug. 18, 2006.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:8-a - Police Pursuit and Emergency Response.

265:8-a Police Pursuit and Emergency Response. –
Each state, county and local law enforcement agency that conducts emergency response and vehicular pursuits shall adopt a written policy or policies that set forth the manner in which these operations shall be conducted. Such policy or policies shall conform to state or national accreditation standards as adopted by the police standards and training council or the national commission on accreditation for law enforcement agencies and shall be kept on file and available for inspection by the police standards and training council and the attorney general.
Source.
1999, 171:1, eff. Jan. 1, 2000.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:9 - Obedience to Any Required Traffic Control Devices.

265:9 Obedience to Any Required Traffic Control Devices. –
I. The driver of any vehicle shall obey the instructions of any traffic control device applicable thereto placed as provided by law, unless otherwise directed by a traffic or police officer, subject to the exceptions granted the driver of an authorized emergency vehicle in this chapter.
II. No provision of this chapter for which signs are required shall be enforced against an alleged violator if at the time and place of the alleged violation an official sign is not in proper position and sufficiently legible to be seen by an ordinarily observant person.
III. Whenever traffic control devices are placed in position approximately conforming to the requirements of this chapter, such devices shall be presumed to have been so placed by the official act or direction of lawful authority, unless the contrary shall be established by competent evidence.
IV. Any traffic control device placed pursuant to the provisions of this chapter and purporting to conform to the lawful requirements pertaining to such devices shall be presumed to comply with the requirements of this chapter, unless the contrary shall be established by competent evidence.
V. When a traffic control device is not operational, the driver shall obey the rules of the road applicable to intersections without traffic control devices or intersections with 4-way stop signs, including, but not limited to:
(a) Yielding the right of way to a vehicle on the right, RSA 265:28, I.
(b) Vehicle turning left yielding to approaching vehicle, RSA 265:29.
(c) Yielding to vehicle which has entered the intersection, RSA 265:30, I.
(d) Yielding by vehicle entering from private roadway or driveway, RSA 265:32.
(e) Yielding to emergency vehicles, RSA 265:33.
(f) Yielding to pedestrians in crosswalks, RSA 265:35.
Source.
RSA 262-A:8. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982. 2018, 41:1, eff. July 14, 2018.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:11 - Pedestrian Control Signals.

265:11 Pedestrian Control Signals. –
Whenever special pedestrian-control signals exhibiting the words "Walk" or "Don't Walk," or symbols of a "walking person" or "upraised hand," are in place such signals shall indicate as follows:
I. Walk-Pedestrians facing such signal may proceed across the roadway in the direction of the signal and shall be given the right of way by the drivers of all vehicles.
II. Don't Walk-No pedestrian shall start to cross the roadway in the direction of such signals if such crossing interferes with vehicular traffic; however, any pedestrian who has partially completed crossing shall proceed to a sidewalk or safety island.
Source.
RSA 262-A:10. 1963, 330:1. 1973, 24:4. 1981, 146:1. 1994, 135:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1995. 2019, 13:1, eff. July 9, 2019. 2023, 28:1, eff. July 16, 2023.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:11-a - Prohibiting Avoidance of Traffic Signals.

265:11-a Prohibiting Avoidance of Traffic Signals. –
At any traffic control signal or sign, it shall be unlawful for the driver of a motor vehicle to cut across public or private property at or near the intersection which is not a roadway to avoid the traffic control signal or sign. Any person who violates the provisions of this section shall be guilty of a violation.
Source.
1986, 127:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1987.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:12 - Flashing Signals.

265:12 Flashing Signals. –
I. Whenever an illuminated flashing red or yellow signal is used in a traffic sign or signal it shall require obedience by vehicular traffic as follows:
(a) Flashing red (stop signal). When a red lens is illuminated with rapid intermittent flashes, drivers of vehicles shall stop before entering the nearest crosswalk at an intersection or at a limit line when marked, or if none, then before entering the intersection, and the right to proceed shall be subject to the rules applicable after making a stop at a stop sign.
(b) Flashing yellow (caution signal). When a yellow lens is illuminated with rapid intermittent flashes, drivers of vehicles may proceed through the intersection or past such signal only with caution.
II. This section shall not apply at railroad grade crossings. Conduct of drivers of vehicles approaching railroad grade crossings shall be governed by RSA 265:49.
Source.
RSA 262-A:11. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:13 - Lane Use Control Signals.

265:13 Lane Use Control Signals. –
When lane use control signals are placed over individual lanes, said signals shall indicate and apply to drivers of vehicles as follows:
I. Green indication-vehicular traffic may travel in any lane over which a green signal is shown;
II. Steady yellow indication-vehicular traffic is thereby warned that a lane control change is being made;
III. Steady red indication-vehicular traffic shall not enter or travel in any lane over which a red signal is shown;
IV. Flashing yellow indication-vehicular traffic may use the lane only for the purpose of approaching and making a left turn.
Source.
RSA 262-A:12. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1; 479:30, eff. Jan. 1, 1982 at 12:01 a.m.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:14 - Display of Unauthorized Signs, Signals or Markings.

265:14 Display of Unauthorized Signs, Signals or Markings. –
I. No person shall place, maintain or display upon or in view of any way any unauthorized sign, signal, marking or device which purports to be or is an imitation of or resembles an official traffic control device or railroad sign or signal, or which attempts to direct the movement of traffic, or which hides from view or interferes with the effectiveness of any official traffic control device or any railroad sign or signal.
II. No person shall place or maintain nor shall any public authority permit upon any way any traffic sign or signal bearing thereon any commercial advertising.
III. This section shall not be deemed to prohibit the erection upon private property adjacent to ways of signs giving useful directional information and of a type that cannot be mistaken for official signs.
IV. Every such prohibited sign, signal or marking is hereby declared to be a public nuisance and the authority having jurisdiction over the way is hereby empowered to remove the same or cause it to be removed without notice.
Source.
RSA 262-A:13. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:15 - Interference With Traffic Devices, Signs, or Signals.

265:15 Interference With Traffic Devices, Signs, or Signals. –
I. No person shall, without lawful authority, attempt to or in fact alter, deface, injure, knock down other than accidentally, remove, or possess any of the following items, or any part thereof, which have been previously installed by lawful authority:
(a) Any official control device; or
(b) Any railroad sign or signal; or
(c) Any inscription, shield or insignia found on any of the above.
II. (a) No person shall use or attempt to use any device designed or intended to change, disrupt, or interfere with the operation of a traffic signal.
(b) A person shall be guilty of a misdemeanor if convicted under this paragraph.
(c) This paragraph shall not apply to the following persons, who shall be permitted to use traffic signal preemption technology for emergency response purposes:
(1) Federal, state, or local law enforcement personnel while in the course of their official duties.
(2) Firefighters while in the course of their official duties.
(3) Emergency medical services personnel while in the course of their official duties.
(4) State or municipal department of transportation or highway personnel while in the course of their official duties.
(d) The exemptions set forth in subparagraphs (c)(1)-(c)(4) shall only apply to such personnel when they are operating licensed ambulances, licensed fire apparatus, or government-owned vehicles.
(e) This paragraph shall not apply to personnel operating fixed-route public transportation buses while in regularly-scheduled service, who shall be permitted to use traffic signal prioritization technology for congestion management purposes.
III. The fine for a violation of this section shall be $150.
Source.
RSA 262-A:14. 1963, 330:1. 1979, 199:1. 1981, 146:1. 2004, 250:1. 2005, 177:35. 2010, 221:2, eff. June 28, 2010. 2017, 113:1, 2, eff. Jan. 1, 2018.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:16 - Drive on Right Side of Roadway; Exceptions.

265:16 Drive on Right Side of Roadway;  Exceptions. –
I. Upon all roadways of sufficient width a vehicle shall be driven upon the right half of the roadway, except as follows:
(a) When overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction under the rules governing such movement;
(b) When an obstruction exists making it necessary to drive to the left of the center of the way; provided, any person so doing shall yield the right of way to all vehicles traveling in the proper direction upon the unobstructed portion of the way within such distance as to constitute an immediate hazard;
(c) Upon a roadway divided into 3 marked lanes for traffic under the rules applicable thereon;
(d) Upon a city street designated and signposted for one-way traffic.
II. 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 lane 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 or driveway.
III. Upon any roadway having 4 or more lanes for moving traffic and providing for 2-way movement of traffic, no vehicle shall be driven to the left of the center line of the roadway, except when authorized by official traffic control devices designating certain lanes to the left side of the center of the roadway for use by traffic not otherwise permitted to use such lanes, or except as permitted under I(b) hereof.
IV. Motor vehicles shall not be operated continuously in the left lane of a multilane roadway whenever it impedes the flow of other traffic at or below the posted speed limit unless reasonable and prudent under the conditions having regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing.
V. Any person who violates this section shall be guilty of a violation and shall be fined $50 plus penalty assessment.
Source.
RSA 262-A:15. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982. 2018, 281:1, eff. Jan. 1, 2019.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:17 - Approaching Vehicles.

265:17 Approaching Vehicles. –
I. Drivers of vehicles proceeding in opposite directions shall pass each other to the right, and upon roadways having width for not more than one line of traffic in each direction, each driver shall give to the other at least
1/2 of the main-traveled portion of the roadway as nearly as possible.
II. The fine for a violation of this section shall be $75.
Source.
RS 63:1. CS 67:1. GS 69:8. GL 75:11. PS 76:17. PL 90:1. RL 106:1. 1945, 188:1, part 20:1. RSA 250:1. 1963, 330:1. RSA 262-A:16. 1981, 146:1. 2005, 177:27, eff. July 1, 2005.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:18 - Overtaking a Vehicle on the Left.

265:18 Overtaking a Vehicle on the Left. –
The following rules shall govern the overtaking and passing of vehicles proceeding in the same direction, subject to those limitations, exceptions and special rules hereinafter stated:
I. 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.
II. 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 the vehicle until completely passed by the overtaking vehicle.
Source.
PS 76:18. PL 90:2. RL 106:2. 1945, 188:1, part 20:2. RSA 250:2. 1963, 330:1. RSA 262-A:17. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:19 - When Overtaking on the Right is Permitted.

265:19 When Overtaking on the Right is Permitted. –
The driver of a vehicle may overtake and pass on the right of another vehicle only under the following conditions:
I. When the vehicle overtaken is making or about to make a left turn;
II. Upon a roadway with unobstructed pavement of sufficient width for 2 or more lines of vehicles moving lawfully in the direction being traveled by the overtaking vehicle;
III. The driver of a vehicle may overtake and pass another vehicle upon the right only under conditions permitting such movement in safety. Such movement shall not be made by driving off the roadway.
Source.
RSA 262-A:18. 1963, 330:1. 1973, 49:1. 1981, 146:1; 479:31, eff. Jan. 1, 1982 at 12:01 a.m.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:20 - Limitations on Overtaking on the Left.

265:20 Limitations on Overtaking on the Left. –
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 unless authorized by the provisions of this chapter and 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 driving of any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction or any vehicle overtaken. In every event the overtaking vehicle must return to an authorized lane of travel as soon as practicable and in the event the passing movement involves the use of a lane authorized for vehicles approaching from the opposite direction, before coming within 200 feet of any approaching vehicle.
Source.
RSA 262-A:19. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:21 - Further Limitations on Driving to Left of Center of Roadway.

265:21 Further Limitations on Driving to Left of Center of Roadway. –
I. No vehicle shall at any time be driven to the left side of the roadway under the following conditions:
(a) 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 in the event another vehicle might approach from the opposite direction;
(b) When approaching within 100 feet of or traversing any intersection or railroad grade crossing, unless otherwise indicated;
(c) When the view is obstructed upon approaching within 100 feet of any bridge, viaduct or tunnel.
II. The foregoing limitations shall not apply upon a one-way roadway.
Source.
RSA 262-A:20. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1. 1989, 85:1, eff. June 30, 1989.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:22 - Highway Markings.

265:22 Highway Markings. –
I. The commissioner of transportation and, subject to his approval, selectmen of any town or board of mayor and aldermen or group having similar powers in any city, having control of any highway may order such marking of ways, by painted lines, as is deemed necessary to the safe and efficient use of any such way. In ordering or approving such marking the commissioner of transportation insofar as is practicable shall conform to nationally accepted standards and any marking of the way by painted lines shall prima facie be deemed to be approved or ordered by the commissioner of transportation. When the single center line highway marking method is used, no driver of a vehicle shall, while proceeding along a way, drive any part of such vehicle to the left of or across an unbroken painted line marked on the way by order of or with the approval of the said commissioner, except as herein otherwise provided and when the barrier line highway marking system is employed, no driver of a vehicle shall, while proceeding along a way, drive any part of such vehicle to the left of or across an unbroken painted line marked on the way in such driver's lane by order of or with the approval of said commissioner except:
(a) In an emergency; or
(b) To permit ingress or egress to side roads or property adjacent to the highway; or
(c) In case such driver has an unobstructed view and can see the end of the said unbroken painted line; or
(d) In order to pass a pedestrian, a motorized wheelchair, a mobility scooter or device, or a device moved by human power, including a bicycle, skateboard, or foot-scooter, provided such movement can be made safely; or
(e) In order to comply with RSA 265:37-a, I.
II. The fine for a violation of this section shall be $100.
Source.
RSA 262-A:21. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1. 2004, 257:33. 2005, 177:46, eff. July 1, 2005. 2018, 46:1, eff. July 14, 2018. 2021, 128:1, 2, eff. Sept. 21, 2021.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:23 - One-Way Roadways and Roadways and Rotary Traffic Islands.

265:23 One-Way Roadways and Roadways and Rotary Traffic Islands. –
I. The commissioner of transportation may designate any way or any separate roadway under his jurisdiction for one-way traffic and shall erect appropriate signs giving notice thereof.
II. Upon a roadway designated and sign-posted for one-way traffic a vehicle shall be driven only in the direction designated.
III. A vehicle passing around a rotary traffic island shall be driven only to the right of such island.
IV. The fine for a violation of this section shall be $100.
Source.
RSA 262-A:22. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1. 2005, 177:28, eff. July 1, 2005.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:24 - Driving on Roadways Laned for Traffic.

265:24 Driving on Roadways Laned for Traffic. –
Whenever any roadway has been divided into 2 or more lanes clearly marked for traffic, the following rules in addition to all others consistent herewith shall apply:
I. A vehicle shall be driven as nearly as practicable entirely within a single lane and shall not be moved from such lane until the driver has first ascertained that such movement can be made with safety;
II. Upon a roadway which is divided into 3 lanes and provides for 2-way movement of traffic, a vehicle shall not be driven in the center lane except when overtaking and passing another vehicle traveling in the same direction when such center lane is clear of traffic within a safe distance, or in preparation for making a left turn or where such center lane is at the time allocated exclusively to traffic moving in the same direction that the vehicle is proceeding and such allocation is designated by official traffic control devices;
III. Official traffic control devices may be erected directing specified traffic to use a designated lane or designating those lanes 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 every such sign;
IV. Official traffic devices may be installed prohibiting the changing of lanes on sections of roadway and drivers of vehicles shall obey the directions of every such device.
Source.
RSA 262-A:23. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:25 - Following Too Closely.

265:25 Following Too Closely. –
I. The driver of a vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of such vehicles and the traffic upon and the condition of the way.
II. The driver of any motor truck or vehicle drawing another vehicle when traveling upon a roadway outside of a business or residence district and which is following another motor truck or vehicle drawing another vehicle shall, whenever conditions permit, leave sufficient space so that an overtaking vehicle may enter and occupy such space without danger, except that this shall not prevent a motor truck or vehicle drawing another vehicle from overtaking and passing any like vehicle or other vehicle.
III. Vehicles being driven upon any roadway outside of a business or residence district in a caravan or motorcade whether or not towing other vehicles shall be so driven as to allow sufficient space between each such vehicle or combination of vehicles so as to enable any other vehicle to enter and occupy such space without danger. This provision shall not apply to funeral processions.
IV. The fine for a violation of this section shall be $100.
Source.
1949, 216:1. RSA 263:31. 1963, 330:1. RSA 262-A:24. 1981, 146:1. 2005, 177:31, eff. July 1, 2005.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:26 - Driving on Divided Ways.

265:26 Driving on Divided Ways. –
I. Whenever any way has been divided into 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 officers. No vehicle shall be driven over, across or within any such dividing space, barrier or section, except through an opening in such physical barrier or dividing section or space or at a cross-over or intersection as established, unless specifically permitted by public authority.
II. With the exception of any state, federal, county or municipal vehicle or any agent thereof, operating in furtherance of their official duties or any vehicle in an emergency, no vehicle shall be driven to the right of the unbroken painted line marking the barrier between the travel portion of a divided way and the emergency breakdown lane, or to the left of the unbroken painted line marking the barrier between the travel portion of a divided way and the dividing space or barrier.
III. The fine for a violation of this section shall be $150.
Source.
RSA 262-A:25. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1. 1987, 404:15. 1990, 62:22. 2005, 177:26, eff. July 1, 2005.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:26-a - Driving Upon Sidewalk.

265:26-a Driving Upon Sidewalk. –
No person shall drive any vehicle upon a sidewalk or sidewalk area except when a permanent or authorized temporary driveway crosses the sidewalk area.
Source.
1981, 479:32, eff. Jan. 1, 1982 at 12:01 a.m.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:27 - Restricted Access.

265:27 Restricted Access. –
No person shall drive a vehicle onto or from any controlled access roadway except at such entrances and exits as are established by public authority.
Source.
RSA 262-A:26. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:28 - Vehicle Approaching or Entering Intersection.

265:28 Vehicle Approaching or Entering Intersection. –
I. The driver of every vehicle approaching or entering an intersection on the left shall yield the right of way to the vehicle on the right, unless otherwise designated by an official traffic control device or otherwise directed by a police officer.
II. The right of way rule declared in paragraph I is modified at through highways and otherwise as provided in this chapter.
Source.
RS 63:2. CS 67:2. GS 69:9. 1878, 31:1. GL 75:12. PS 76:19. 1923, 78:1. PL 90:3. 1935, 117:6. RL 106:3. 1945, 188:1, part 20:3. RSA 250:3. 1963, 330:1. RSA 262-A:27. 1981, 146:1. 1983, 434:8, eff. June 24, 1983.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:29 - Vehicle Turning Left.

265:29 Vehicle Turning Left. –
The driver of a vehicle intending to turn to the left within an intersection or into an alley, private road, or driveway shall yield the right of way to any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction which is within the intersection or so close thereto as to constitute an immediate hazard.
Source.
RSA 262-A:28. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:30 - Vehicle Entering Stop or Yield Intersection or Highway.

265:30 Vehicle Entering Stop or Yield Intersection or Highway. –
I. Except when directed to proceed by a police officer or traffic control signal, every driver of a vehicle approaching a stop intersection indicated by a stop sign shall stop as required by RSA 265:31, II, and after having stopped shall yield the right of way to any vehicle which has entered the intersection from another highway or which is approaching so closely on said highway as to constitute an immediate hazard during the time when such driver is moving across or within the intersection.
II. The driver of a vehicle approaching a yield sign shall in obedience to such sign slow down to a speed reasonable for the existing conditions and shall yield the right of way to any vehicle in the intersection or approaching on another highway so closely as to constitute an immediate hazard during the time such driver is moving across or within the intersection. If such a driver is involved in a collision with a vehicle in the intersection after driving past a yield sign without yielding, such collision shall be deemed prima facie evidence of his failure to yield right of way.
III. The driver of a vehicle using an entrance ramp onto a highway shall yield to the vehicles on the highway, regardless of whether there is a yield sign on the entrance ramp.
Source.
RSA 262-A:29. 1955, 178:2. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1. 1989, 305:15, eff. July 1, 1989.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:31 - Stop Signs; Yield Signs.

265:31 Stop Signs;  Yield Signs. –
I. Preferential right of way at an intersection may be indicated by stop signs or yield signs.
II. Except when directed to proceed by a police officer or traffic control signal, every driver of a vehicle approaching a stop intersection indicated by a stop sign shall stop before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection or, in the event there is no crosswalk, shall stop at a clearly marked stop line, but if none, then at a point nearest the intersecting roadway where the driver has a view of approaching traffic on the intersecting roadway before entering the intersection.
III. The driver of a vehicle approaching a yield sign if required for safety to stop shall stop before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection, or, in the event there is no crosswalk, at a clearly marked stop line, but if none, then at the point nearest the intersecting roadway where the driver has a view of approaching traffic on the intersecting roadway.
IV. The fine for violation of this section shall be $100.
Source.
RSA 262-A:50. 1955, 178:2. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1. 2005, 177:43, eff. July 1, 2005.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:32 - Vehicle Entering Way From Private Road or Driveway.

265:32 Vehicle Entering Way From Private Road or Driveway. –
The driver of a vehicle about to enter or cross a way from a private road or driveway shall yield the right of way to all vehicles approaching on said way.
Source.
RSA 262-A:30. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:33 - Driving of Vehicles on Approach of Authorized Emergency Vehicles.

265:33 Driving of Vehicles on Approach of Authorized Emergency Vehicles. –
Upon the immediate approach of an authorized emergency vehicle making use of audible or visual signals or of a police vehicle properly and lawfully making use of an audible or visual signal, 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. 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 way.
Source.
RSA 262-A:31. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:34 - Pedestrians Subject to Traffic Signs and Regulations.

265:34 Pedestrians Subject to Traffic Signs and Regulations. –
A pedestrian shall obey the instructions of any traffic sign or regulation specifically applicable to him, unless otherwise directed by a police officer. Pedestrians shall be subject to traffic and pedestrian control signals as provided in RSA 265:9 unless required by local ordinance to comply strictly with such signals. At all other places, pedestrians shall be accorded the privileges and shall be subject to the restrictions stated in this chapter.
Source.
RSA 262-A:32. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1; 479:33, eff. Jan. 1, 1982 at 12:01 a.m.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:35 - Pedestrian's Right of Way in Crosswalks.

265:35 Pedestrian's Right of Way in Crosswalks. –
I. When traffic control signals are not in place or not in operation the driver of a vehicle shall yield the right of way, slowing down or stopping if need be to so yield, to a pedestrian crossing the roadway within a crosswalk when the pedestrian is upon the half of the roadway upon which the vehicle is traveling, or when the pedestrian is approaching so closely from the opposite half of the roadway as to be in danger.
II. No pedestrian shall suddenly leave a curb or other place of safety and walk or run into the path of a vehicle which is so close as to constitute an immediate hazard.
III. Paragraph I shall not apply under the conditions stated in RSA 265:36.
IV. Whenever any vehicle is stopped at a marked crosswalk or at any unmarked crosswalk at an intersection to permit a pedestrian to cross the roadway, the driver of any other vehicle approaching from the rear shall not overtake and pass such stopped vehicle.
Source.
1949, 212:1. RSA 263:45. 1963, 330:1. RSA 262-A:33. 1981, 146:1; 479:34, 35, eff. Jan. 1, 1982 at 12:01 a.m.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:36 - Crossing at Other Than Crosswalks.

265:36 Crossing at Other Than Crosswalks. –
I. Every pedestrian crossing a roadway at any point other than within a marked crosswalk or within an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection shall yield the right of way to all vehicles upon the roadway.
II. Any pedestrian crossing a roadway at a point where a pedestrian tunnel or overhead pedestrian crossing has been provided shall yield the right of way to all vehicles upon the roadway.
III. Between adjacent intersections at which traffic control signals are in operation pedestrians shall not cross at any place except in a marked crosswalk.
IV. No pedestrian shall cross a roadway intersection diagonally unless authorized by traffic control devices; and, when authorized to cross diagonally, pedestrians shall cross only in accordance with the official traffic control devices pertaining to such crossing movements.
Source.
RSA 262-A:34. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:37 - Drivers to Exercise Due Care.

265:37 Drivers to Exercise Due Care. –
Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this chapter or the provisions of any local ordinance, every driver of a vehicle shall exercise due care to avoid colliding with any pedestrian or any person propelling a human-powered vehicle and shall give an audible signal when necessary and shall exercise proper precaution upon observing any child or any obviously confused, incapacitated or intoxicated person.
Source.
1915, 129:6. 1921, 119:11. PL 103:13. RL 119:22. RSA 263:44. 1963, 330:1. RSA 262-A:35. 1981, 146:1; 479:36, eff. Jan. 1, 1982 at 12:01 a.m.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:37-a - Motorist Duties When Approaching Highway Emergencies.

265:37-a Motorist Duties When Approaching Highway Emergencies. –
I. When in or approaching an incident involving a fire, collision, disaster, utility construction or maintenance, or other emergency resulting in partial or complete blockage of a highway, or a location where a police officer has made a traffic stop, every driver other than the driver of an emergency response vehicle, shall:
(a) Maintain a reduced speed.
(b) Obey the directions of any authorized person directing traffic and of all applicable emergency signals and traffic control devices.
(c) Vacate as soon as possible any lane wholly or partially blocked.
(d) Give a wide berth, without endangering oncoming traffic, to public safety personnel, any persons in the roadway, and vehicles displaying blue, red, or amber emergency or warning lights.
II. Any person violating this section shall be fined $75 plus penalty assessment for a first offense and $250 plus penalty assessment for a subsequent offense in a 12-month period.
Source.
2004, 193:3. 2008, 146:1, eff. Aug. 5, 2008. 2015, 112:2, eff. Aug. 7, 2015; 202:3, eff. Jan. 1, 2016. 2019, 11:1, eff. July 9, 2019.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:37-b - Avoidance of Lane Blockage.

265:37-b Avoidance of Lane Blockage. –
I. No person shall stop or park a vehicle in such manner as to impede or render dangerous the use of the roadway by others except to avoid a collision, at the direction of an authorized official, or in the event of a mechanical breakdown.
II. In the event of a mechanical breakdown, the hazard flashers of such vehicle shall be activated if so equipped and in working order.
III. If a vehicle stopped in the roadway is movable and its driver is capable of moving it, the driver shall immediately move the vehicle to the shoulder or to another safe area off of the traveled portion of the roadway.
IV. A law enforcement officer or the incident commander at an incident involving a fire, collision, or other emergency may order the removal of a vehicle that is impeding emergency operations or impeding expedited restoration of traffic flow at the owner's expense.
Source.
2004, 193:3, eff. Jan. 1, 2005.