Do you love the left lane?
When you head out on the open road, do you automatically steer toward the left lane because that’s traditionally where “faster” drivers are known to go? And while there’s nothing wrong with using the left lane as it’s intended, people who drive slowly in that lane could find themselves in trouble with the law.
Much of the current misunderstanding over the left lane stems from the 55 mph national speed limit that was enacted in 1974, according to the National Motorists Association (NMA), a grassroots drivers’ alliance that lobbies for traffic regulations and safety issues. Before this, passing on the left was an unwritten rule of the road, but after the speed limit was enacted, drivers believed that if they were maintaining the posted speed limit then they could chill anywhere. “Because the speed limit was too low, drivers trying to pass weren’t allowed to and it caused a lot of problems, and it still does,” says Shelia Dunn, Communications Director of the NMA.
Reserving the left lane only for passing other cars—known as “lane courtesy”—reaps surprising benefits, however. Here’s why you should reserve your left-lane use for passing only.
You’ll Avoid Tickets And Fines
People have different interpretations of how to drive in the left lane, but staying there when you’re not passing isn’t allowed in most states, despite what some drivers might think. Blame the confusion on the lack of a nationwide law. In 29 states, there are laws that any car moving slower than the surrounding traffic should be in the right lane, while other states are stricter and designate the left lane only for turning or passing. In Georgia, it’s actually a misdemeanor to move slower in the left lane than surrounding traffic. This year, Tennessee cracked down and now has established a $50 fine for slow left-lane drivers.
It’s Safer
Beyond avoiding fines (always a plus!), abiding by lane courtesy makes the roads safer for everyone, as faster drivers have a quick and easy way to get around slower drivers. “You’re less likely to get into an accident because traffic is always flowing and more consistent,” says Dunn.
You’ll Save On Gas
Following the letter of the law can save you a few bucks, too. Maintaining your speed and sticking to the right can get you better gas mileage. You’re also doing planet Earth a solid. Less weaving in and out of lanes is more fuel-efficient and better for the environment, so even if you forgot to recycle last week, you can still be a tad proud of yourself if you stick to the right.
You’ll Stress Less
Trying to zip around cars doesn’t significantly improve your commute time, either. “If you remain at a consistent speed limit and only drive to the left if you need to, you’re going to ultimately get to your destination faster,” says Dunn. Plus, lane courtesy might just be the quickest cure for road rage. “If you’re weaving in and out and cutting people off, you may cause road rage in others, and that’s what we really need to stop,” says Dunn.
Of course lane courtesy is easier said than done, especially in states with heavily trafficked motorways. But you don’t have to give up entirely. “Don’t just park yourself in one of the middle lanes,” recommends Dunn. “You should really be cognizant of trucks and what everyone around you is doing, and try to drive right as much as possible.” But staying in the right lane doesn’t mean you can zone out, either: Remember to be aware of and make room for merging vehicles.
In the end, lane courtesy actually helps all drivers treat one another as equals on the road—and makes the highways and freeways a safer space for everyone.
Before you take off to your next destination, get a fast, free auto insurance quote from GEICO to see how much you could save.
Next: The rules of the road aren’t always cut and dry, so take our “Are You a Good Driver?” quiz to find out how you compare with your fellow motorists.
By Kara Cutruzzula
Scott Cooper says,
A left lane exit ramp often forces use of the left lane a considerable distance from the exit, when traffic is heavy and other drivers resist allowing a lane change to exit. A driver travelling at the posted speed limit, required to make a left lane exit, will often be regarded as an impediment by drivers desiring to travel at a speed higher than the posted speed limit.
Yenny L. says,
Good article. Is always good to be inform and as a good reminder. Thanks.
Mark says,
Good article. A friend of mine was driving 35mh in a 50mph zone while it was raining. I told her either get in the right lane, do the posted speed limit or pull over and I’ll walk home. She did neither. She said she was slowing everbody down so no one will get in an accident. Needless to say if she wants to go anywhere together, I drive.
chris says,
you go boy…
V says,
One of my friends almost got shot by someone with road rage for doing something similar.
Paul says,
I think we all have a friend that thinks like this. She just causing roadrage by breaking the law which can cause an accident down the road, so what good is her efforts. I wish law enforcement would be more aggressive in enforcing this. It would mean more revenue from fines and reeducate drivers. If you are being past on the right be courtesy and move over. “Slow Traffic, Keep Right” same color sign as the Speed Limit sign.
Charlie says,
Great article on Lane Courtesy and a much needed reminder here in the States. Far too many drivers feel “entitled” to use the left lane, and subsequently slow down traffic and cause undue driver frustration. If you’ve ever driven on European highways, you’ll appreciate the benefits of lane courtesy – they strictly use the left lane for passing and quickly move over to the right for cars approaching from behind.
DR says,
They are more courteous in Europe, but it’s not just courtesy there, it’s the law. Traffic moves much more smoothly and it’s a given that everyone respects the law. I drove over there for 10 years and driving here in the states is a hodge podge mess like the wild west. You take your life in your hands when you get on an interstate.
ben h says,
Thanks I’ve been saying this for years. It is a shame that some just like to park it in the left lane and could care less about friendly. I wish it was a National Law, then we could all be in the same ball park.
GAM says,
Thank you for the reminders of safe driving; I always appreciate reading them to remind myself of some rules I may have forgotten. Also a big thanks for the gas saving tips.
Julie D'Ambrosia says,
When I hit the highway I usually hit cruise control about 72, as to no get run over. I drive a Kia Soul and people hate to get passed by one. Then you are in for a confrontation when you pass on the left. You keep your standard speed and they get on your tail. Slow and chill people. Leave earlier if you have to.
DR says,
Then stay out of the left lane.
Jaime Oswaldo Jarrin Chavez says,
Thanks good tip
Betty McFall says,
I have a court date in PA for this and it’s $129.00. The fine is $25.00 and PA adds outrageous fees that are indecipherable. One is $45.00; one is $39.00. I think a warning the first time would suffice. Ignorance of the law is no excuse, and you bet I’ll mobe over and spend less time on PA. Maryland just passed the law, and the fine is $75.00.
Edward Shortridge says,
In my opinion, passing big rigs on the right needs to be addressed. What does traffic law say about that?
Rodney Babb says,
Yes and as a truck driver in most states I could be fined for driving the left lane. So if someone is driving the middle lane it can also cause a traffic problem.
Donna says,
No because it double yellow lines
Billy bob says,
Huh?
Gary Witt says,
Then why did I observe a “GEICO” labeled insurance car in the left lane as I passed him on Route 45, just south of Effingham, Illinois last week? You need to educate your own representatives on this!
Nickygon says,
On mountainous freeways, the two right lanes are specificly designated for trucks, vehicles towing trailers and slow drivers. In California. It would be wise to make an attempt to inform all drivers of this distinct designation because it is obvious a large number of today’s drivers are oblivious. As humans our competitive nature can sometimes take our better judgment and throw it out the door. Get over being passed by those driving faster than yourself, even if the faster driver is over the speed limit. It is not our obligation to force any speeders to slow down to the speed limits. Those who block the passing/fast lane traffic are great contributers to the reason some drivers use the right lanes to pass slower drivers….stay calm,,keep a good eye on the rearview mirror and swollow your stubborn pride concerning being passed by faster traffic. Awareness of everything around you and practicing common courtesy on the roadways will be beneficial to everyone. The real goal should be to get ourselves to a place where auto insurance is not needed at all….dream on…right? Technology is making this dream real…..maybe soon….but in the meantime….please drive like you have a brain and are in control of your actions.
Karen says,
Thank you for this article. I hope more people will read and head it.
Karen says,
Sorry, I mean “heed.” 🙂