TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA — Driving too slow in the fast lane could soon become illegal in Florida.
Senate Bill 464 seeks to outlaw drivers from lingering in the “furthermost left-hand lane” if they are not passing another driver in a right or center lane.
The restrictions only apply to roadways with a speed limit of least 65 miles per hour. Exceptions in the proposal allow for drivers to exit the roadway via the left-lane or are directed to do so by authorities. Violators could face fines between $60 and $158.
The bill breezed through the Appropriations Committee on Wednesday with an 11–1 vote.
Sen. Keith Perry, who sponsored the bill, is trying to reduce accidents caused by drivers attempting to pass in the right lane. He claims right-lane passing has led to over 17,000 car accidents since 2018, according to Florida Politics.
“The goal is to have people stay out of the left lane,” Perry said. “That’s not where you’re supposed to be driving. That’s more of a passing lane.”
AMERICA HATES SLOW DRIVERS IN THE FAST LANE
A Consumer Reports survey from 2012 found that “Slow drivers dawdling in the passing lane” was tied for America’s 11th most hated driving behavior. Lingering in the left lane received the same score as “jaywalkers stepping in front of your car.”
Perry understands that frustration with slow drivers clogging up traffic can create additional problems on the highway.
“Hopefully it will minimize road rage.”
