Few things are more aggravating to drivers than slow-moving vehicles clogging up the left lane on a highway. Multiple states have taken steps to prevent drivers from going slow in the left lane, including Georgia. And they’ve done so for good reason. Many studies have shown that driving too slowly is at least as dangerous as speeding, with one finding that slow left-lane drivers are the cause of about 10 percent of all highway accidents.
Georgia “Slow Poke” Law
Georgia passed its version of a “slow poke” law in 2014. Under the Official Code of Georgia Title 40 Chapter 6 Section 184 (1), “No person shall drive a motor vehicle at such a slow speed as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic, except when reduced speed is necessary for safe operation.”
Section 184 (2) additionally states that on all four-lane roadways, “no person shall continue to operate a motor vehicle in the most left-hand lane at less than the maximum lawful speed limit once such person knows or should reasonably know that he is being overtaken in such lane from the rear by a motor vehicle traveling at a higher rate of speed, except when such motor vehicle is preparing for a left turn.”
This law was passed with two big objectives in mind: to reduce traffic and to reduce accidents. While it is unclear exactly how effective the law has been in accomplishing those goals, many believe the law has helped make the roadways safer. A spokeswoman for the National Motorists Association told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, “There’s a natural flow to traffic, which is the safest speed to drive, even if it’s a little faster than the speed limit. Congestion causes road rage and bad driving.”
It is important for drivers to be cognizant of the dangers that driving slower than traffic can have, especially when they are taking up space in the left lane. Drivers ticketed for violating the slow poke law face a fine of up to $1,000 and could gain 3 points on their license. If a driver causes an accident because they are driving too slow in the left-lane, they can also be considered at-fault and be liable for the damage they cause.
If You’ve Been Injured in an Auto Accident, Call Williams Elleby Howard & Easter
If you or a loved one has been in an accident in Georgia, you need qualified and experienced legal representation. It is crucial for injury victims to understand their legal rights and options. The attorneys at Williams Elleby Howard & Easter, are dedicated to getting personal injury auto accident victims the compensation they deserve in Georgia.
Williams Elleby Howard & Easter, is located in Kennesaw, Georgia, and serves clients throughout the State of Georgia. Our attorneys offer free consultations and take cases on a contingency fee basis – that means our clients don’t pay any fees to us unless we obtain a recovery. If you would like to discuss your case, call Williams Elleby Howard & Easter, today at 833-LEGALGA.
