Florida lawmaker aims to legislate 'lane courtesy'; slow traffic must move right

LAKE WORTH — In an effort to reduce traffic congestion, Rep. Jeff Clemens (D-Lake Worth) has filed House Bill 177, which would require drivers to move to the right on highways when they are blocking traffic from behind.

The bill follows the lead of other states that have looked to solve the age-old problem of motorists backing up traffic by driving slowly in what is intended to be a lane reserved for passing.

The bill, which is also sponsored by Sen. Mike Bennett (R-Bradenton), makes it a moving violation for drivers who travel continuously in the left lane when other traffic is approaching from behind. It provides exceptions that allow drivers to remain in the left lane when they are traveling the speed limit and not impeding traffic or when conditions don’t allow them to safely move right. The bill also restructures penalties for aggressive driving.

“Blocking traffic in the left lane is a huge source of frustration for many drivers,” said Representative Clemens. “Lane courtesy is important and can help ease road rage and traffic congestion. House Bill 177 will make Florida’s roadways safer.”

Six states (Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine and Massachusetts) have policies that limit the left lane to a passing lane, while 31 other states have variations of the law.

The section of HB 177 concerning aggressive careless driving allows for increased penalties when drivers commit three unlawful acts simultaneously, including speeding, improperly changing lanes, following too closely, and failing to yield to overtaking vehicles. The money received from the aggressive careless driving fines will help pay for driver education regarding the new laws, and will help fund pediatric trauma centers and the Emergency Medical Services Trust Fund.

Rep. Clemens said he hopes that law enforcement does not have to write many tickets for blocking the left lane.

“I deeply believe that good signage and an increased amount of attention to lane courtesy will help alleviate traffic congestion and result in less driver frustration,” he said. “We could all use a little less anger on the highway.”