One of the most frustrating parts of a long road trip is getting stuck behind a slow-moving vehicle — especially when that vehicle is lingering in the left lane.
In New York, drivers who camp out in the left lane may be doing more than just annoying others. They could be violating what’s known as New York’s “Slow Poke Law.”
Here’s what drivers need to know:
What is New York’s ‘Slow Poke Law’?
Under New York Vehicle & Traffic Law (VTL) 1120(a), drivers must stay in the right lane unless one of the following exceptions applies:
Additionally, VTL 1120(b) states:
“Any vehicle proceeding at less than the normal speed of traffic… must be driven in the right-hand lane available for traffic, or as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway — unless overtaking another vehicle or preparing for a left turn.”
The leftmost lane is designated as the passing lane. On roads with three or more lanes, the middle lanes are not considered passing lanes.
Even if a driver is traveling at or above the speed limit, remaining in the left lane without passing another vehicle is a violation of state law.
Penalties for driving in the left lane in New York
Violating the Slow Poke Law (VTL 1120) can result in:
This citation may also be issued in conjunction with other violations, such as speeding or driving too slowly.
Other key New York traffic safety laws
According to the New York State Thruway Authority, here are additional important laws drivers should follow:
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: ‘Slow Poke Law’: Driving slowly in the left lane not only annoying, but illegal in NY
Reporting by Erin Jones, New York Connect Team / Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
