Q: Is it legal when exiting a parking garage on the west side of First Avenue in downtown Seattle to cross two solid yellow lines separating traffic to make a left turn to head north? Brian Belka, who parks in a garage just south of Columbia Street, has found himself facing that dilemma. He wants to make sure he's not also facing a traffic ticket.

A: Wayne Wentz, the city's traffic management director, says it's permissible to exit and turn left over the double yellow lines as long as you don't delay other drivers on the street, and providing you can do so safely. So, too, says Seattle's municipal code.

Two solid yellow lines between lanes of traffic means neither side can pass. But it's permissible to cross yellow lane markings, except medians, to turn left, if it is safe. So says the state Department of Licensing's Washington Driver Guide.