Every state has different laws regarding left lane driving. Typically, the left lane is supposed to be clear except to pass, unless there is a specified carpool lane there. These laws are not widely enforced and often times we try to use the lane to pass and get stuck behind a granny going 50. So, what’s this conundrum like for truckers and what are their left lane rules?

Left Lane Driving Laws

General Highway Laws

If a freeway has three or more lanes, a commercial vehicle cannot travel in the left lane. Throughout the majority of the country, you will see signs posted “left lane for passing only,” which is meant to improve traffic flow. Unfortunately, many cars and trucks that know a route by heart will straggle in the left lane if they know state troopers aren’t around and there aren’t any posted signs.

Watch For Signs

Certain states allow trucks after a certain point to enter the left lane for turns. If you are doing a route in a new state and are unfamiliar with laws such as this, browse the internet and see what you can find — it might save you from a ticket.

Left Lane Makes Stops Easier

It takes a lot longer to stop when driving a semi than it does when driving a personal vehicle. Truckers prefer to use whichever lane is the most open or has the most space between cars in case of a sudden halt in traffic. If there are no signs posted, the driver will choose the left lane. While it helps the trucker a great deal with managing their rig, it doesn’t make those trying to pass very happy, as trucks can only go 67 mph maximum (as mandated by insurance).

Contact Apex CDL today to find out how you can get started in truck driving today.