You may see road signs on the interstate saying that drivers need to move over into the right lane unless they are passing. That is always how the interstate highway system has worked. The reason for the signs, however, is that there are numerous drivers who will camp out in the left lane even though they are driving slowly and not passing anyone.
Some drivers are completely oblivious to the problems that this can cause. Why is it an issue? Here are three potential reasons:
1. It can cause unnecessary lane changes
First and foremost, someone who is driving slowly in the left lane forces drivers behind them to change lanes unexpectedly. They have to hit their brakes, and they may swerve suddenly. Lane changes increase the odds of an accident and should be avoided when possible.
2. Emergency vehicles can have trouble getting through
Drivers who are in the left lane can also cause problems for emergency vehicles that need to get through traffic. Even in heavy traffic, if everyone has an opportunity to pull over to the right, this leaves an open lane for ambulances, firetrucks and more.
3. It can add to traffic congestion
Finally, someone who drives slowly in the left lane just causes more traffic congestion. Everyone else has to slow down to go around them, or they get stuck next to someone going the same speed in the right lane – and no one can pass. Traffic congestion and differences in speed are often reasons for rear-end car accidents.
Even though it’s the law that drivers should move over, many of them fail to do so. If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by one of these negligent drivers, you may be able to seek financial compensation.
