Drivers warned to leave left lane for faster traffic

Fines could follow if slow drivers hang out too long in left lane

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Drivers traveling along I-95 have probably noticed the electronic billboards reminding slower traffic to move out of the left lane.

The signs read, "Slower traffic keep right. Minimum fine $121."

It's against the law in Florida to go slower than the flow of traffic in the left lane, which is meant to be used mainly for passing.

READ: Florida statute on driving on the right

Drivers are also supposed to yield the left lane to traffic approaching from behind them.

“A lot of people out of town or out of state when they are driving on 95, you'll see them just hang out in the left lane, especially if it's three lanes. They won't move over,” driver Paul Healy said.

But many drivers aren't aware that they are supposed to yield to faster traffic behind them if they're in the left lane.

“I don't think it's enforced enough, and I don't think a lot of people know about it,” driver Danielle Giacchetto said. “You just asked me, and I didn't know what it was called. I know that you're supposed to use it for passing. and I try my best to use it like that, but everyone once in a while someone is really slow.”

Driver Benjamin Shad said the state's campaign to fine drivers violating the law might be just the ticket.

“When people are going slow in the left lane, people will pass on the right and that causes accidents,” Shad said. “You hit them in the pocket book and people listen.”

Officers said the law does not apply during rush hour traffic, when it's best to use all lanes because of the congestion.