Clarifying the rules about driving in the left lane will help to improve the flow of traffic, police say.
Provincial legislation introduced last week will make it easier for police to ticket slow motorists in the left lane.
“Drivers who won’t move over can impede traffic and contribute to crashes,” said Todd Stone, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure. “This new rule makes it clear who should travel in the left lane and when, promoting safety on our highways.”
Motorists are allowed to use the left lane when overtaking and passing another vehicle, moving left to allow traffic to merge, preparing for a left turn or passing an official vehicle displaying flashing lights.
The fine of $198 continues, but had been difficult to enforce due to the wording of the legislation, Stone said.
Cpl. Bruce Haley of the Summerland RCMP detachment said drivers in the left lane are most commonly seen during the morning and afternoon rush hours.
He said slow drivers in the left lane tend to frustrate other motorists.
“It promotes a lot of incidents where road rage will occur,” he said of the practice.
“It’s safest and most effective if everyone stays on the right unless they’re overtaking.”