Kevin Eddy drives from Stuart to Palm Beach County every day and said left-lane drivers are causing unwanted congestion on the roads. His frustration prompted a closer look at what Florida law actually requires and how well drivers understand the rule.
Florida law requires drivers to use the far-left lane mainly for passing and not as a general travel lane. The rule applies to roads with a speed limit of 65 mph or higher.
When asked whether they knew it was illegal to drive in the left lane, several drivers admitted confusion. Alfredo Milian said he did not know about the law. Another driver called it a gray area, while a third said he had heard it was illegal to drive in the left lane for a long period of time and that drivers should always use the right lane.
Eddy said better signage and stronger enforcement could help clarify the rule for drivers. He noted there are hardly any signs on the roads explaining the restriction. He also said Florida has many tourists who are not familiar with state traffic laws.
There are exceptions to the left-lane rule during heavy traffic congestion. Drivers should always merge back to the right after passing another car.