Why might a driver need to change lanes while on a one-way street?

A driver might need to change lanes while on a one-way street primarily to avoid obstacles or prepare for a turn. One-way streets can present various situations where maintaining a clear path is necessary. For instance, if there is a stationary vehicle, construction equipment, or any other kind of obstruction in the lane, changing lanes allows the driver to navigate safely around it without having to stop or back up. Additionally, if a driver intends to make a turn at an intersection, positioning themselves in the correct lane well in advance is crucial for safe and effective navigation.

While allowing faster vehicles to pass is a consideration, it is generally less of a priority on one-way streets compared to avoiding obstacles, which is more directly related to safety. Switching from left to right side is not typically relevant since one-way streets dictate the flow of traffic to a designated side. Complying with traffic lights also does not directly necessitate a lane change, as traffic lights are meant to control the flow of traffic rather than dictate lane movements on one-way streets specifically. Thus, the most compelling reason for changing lanes relates to safety and proper navigation through the roadway environment.