Cops Cracking Down On Slow Drivers In The Fast Lane
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - There's a reason the fast lane is called that - because you're supposed to use it for passing slower cars in the right lane.
But, some drivers seem to be using it as a cruising lane.
Now, dozens of states are now cracking down on drivers going too slow in the fast lane.
"I would agree going 90 is more dangerous than going 50 but, doing 50 does come with some concern and some consequences," Lt. Col. Patrick Callahan, of the New Jersey State Police, said.
At least 38 states now have laws in place to fine drivers for lingering in the left lane.
In five states, fines could be up to $1,000 and 22 states classify the violation as a misdemeanor.
Pennsylvania traffic law says, "No person shall drive a motor vehicle at such a slow speed as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic."
While there are regulations regarding minimum speeds on highways here, there's no set fine specifically tied to any so-called "slow poke law."
In New Jersey, a state lawmaker pushed for the law in order to reduce accidents and anger on the road.
In most states that have a "slow poke law," enforcing it is largely up to state troopers.
They're not just looking for the drivers who are going too slow in the fast lane.
"It's those cars that are really obstructing the flow of traffic out there, sometimes even driving under the speed limit," Lt. Col. Callahan said.
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