The Rundown on the Left Lane

So, what exactly is the left lane used for?

Arizona restricts the use of the left lane on a multi-lane road and highway except for using it to pass vehicles in the right lane. In order to pass a vehicle, a driver must be going faster than the vehicles in the right lane. Drivers must get back into the right lane as quick as possible after getting into the left lane.

Arizona is one of the states in the long list that are cracking down on drivers in the left lane. The left lane is used for passing and for passing only. Although it can be difficult to process that the left lane is just for passing, there are many benefits related to this law. The issue lies when you are attempting to pass someone in the right lane but there is a slowpoke in the left lane which really messes with the flow of traffic.

You’ll Save Money!

First, you can avoid tickets and fines! Since 2018, AZ DPS has issued 68 citations and 1,188 warnings related to this issue. Using the left lane for what is was intended for will help you avoid paying fees on tickets.

You’ll Stay Safer!

Fatalities are going up in number each year due to distracted driving and speeding and while there is no research regarding the amount of accidents and fatalities due to slow drivers in the left lane, there are implications due to the disruption in the flow of traffic. Weaving in and out of traffic will decrease the amount of road rage in other drivers, which is a big contributing factor in accidents on the highway. Consistently driving in the left lane can be frustrating to other drivers, which could also lead to tailgating.

You’ll Save Time

If you only use the left lane when you need to and maintain a steady pace in the right lane, you will ultimately save gas and reduce the amount of weaving in and out of lanes which will help you get to your destination faster.

As a last reminder, it is always important to avoid accidents be careful and alert when changing lanes. It is also important to remember that when you are trying to get in front of another vehicle, ensure that you are only going slightly over the limit, just enough to pass the vehicle you want to get in front of. Going way over the limit can be a danger not only to you but to other drivers on the road.

About the author: Dan Deary is president of Capitol Collision Repair, one of the largest, independent body shops in Phoenix, now in their 31st year in business.