Is it illegal to drive slowly in the left lane? Here’s what Georgia law says
Commonly called the “fast lane,” the left lane is for passing on U.S. roadways.
That doesn’t deter some drivers from lollygagging, however.
“Most highways are posted as a minimum speed of 40 mph,” Lt. Fred Carnes with the Columbus, Georgia, Police Department told McClatchy News in an email.
Seasoned drivers know the dangers of speeding, but driving slowly — especially in the left-most lane — also has its risks, including congestion and possible collisions.
“Slow drivers interrupt the flow of traffic,” according to law firm Arnold & Itkin. “They are also often the culprits of distracted driving, or they might be new and inexperienced. This can create problems for everyone on the road.”
So what does Georgia law say about driving too slowly in the left lane?
Is it illegal to drive slowly in the passing lane on Georgia roads?
Slower driving in the left lane is unlawful in Georgia. So if you’re known to loaf, it’s best to get out of the way.
Georgia law prohibits drivers from going so slowly that they back up or impede the normal flow of traffic, according to state Code 40-6-184.
Drivers in the left-most lane on roads with two or more lanes moving in the same direction are required to move over when he or she is being overtaken “from the rear by a motor vehicle traveling at a higher rate of speed,” the law states.
“A good rule of thumb, if you are not actively passing you should not be in the left passing lane,” Carnes said. “Once a pass is made and the lanes are clear, move back into the non passing lane.”
There are exceptions, however. The law allows slower speeds in the left passing lane when:
There’s heavy traffic or congestion
Bad weather, hazards or obstructions make it necessary to drive in the passing lane
Traffic signs or signals make it necessary to drive in the passing lane
You’re exiting or turning left
Traveling on toll highways
Emergency vehicles are responding to a call
Highway maintenance and construction vehicles are being utilized
Can I get a ticket for driving too slowly in the left lane in Georgia?
In a word: Yes.
Slow drivers risk getting a traffic citation, which could result in a hefty fine, Sgt. Christopher Williams with the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office told McClatchy News in an email.
Potential penalties don’t stop there, however.
“A conviction for impeding the flow of traffic will lead to a fine up to $1,000 as well as accumulating 3 points on your license,” according to law firm Lawson & Berry.
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