Louisiana State Troopers are starting to enforce state laws that regulated left-lane driving on multilane highways. Troopers are trying to promote awareness of the law and let motorists know their responsibilities when they are driving on highways with multiple lanes.

Fines for violating the law average $152 and offenders could face an additional $50 fine on an additional left-lane driving citation depending on the circumstances.

Troopers cite several reasons why it is dangerous to drive in the left lane except when passing:

  • Promotes road rage
  • Delays emergency vehicles from responding to accidents and other emergencies
  • Impedes the flow of traffic
  • May encourage tail-gating

State troopers have also heard motorists complain that "individuals that illegally monopolize the left lane and impede the flow of traffic are continuing sources of frustration," as reported by The Town Talk.

To promote awareness of the state's left-lane highway law, Louisiana has posted signs along highways letting drivers know when they should be using the left lane. Multilane highways that do not have on-and-off ramps require motorists to stay right unless they are passing or exiting left off the highway.

Controlled-access highways, like interstates and certain areas of highways, have specific entry and exit ramps that require drivers to stay in the right lane except when passing for safety reasons.

The main exceptions to the law are during construction or congestion in the right lane. Enforcement officials state that the purpose of the law is to make motorists aware of the traffic around them and to enhance traffic safety for the public and emergency vehicles.

Law enforcement officials hope that the signs and public awareness campaigns reduce citations and the need to enforce the law in the future. As of right now, officers statewide are enforcing the law and looking to give citations to offenders throughout Louisiana.

Source: The Town Talk, "Keep right: Tickets issued for left-lane driving on some La. roads," David Dinsmore, Jan. 16, 2012