We’ve all been there…stuck on the highway while the driver in the left lane (i.e. the “fast” lane) is going slower or the same speed as the cars on the right. This can cause congestion and considerable frustration to drivers wanting to pass. Texas Transportation Code Section 545.051 actually requires slower drivers to use the right hand lane. However, it would appear that many drivers are unaware of this requirement.
Does Driving Slowly in the Left Lane Cause Accidents?
As personal injury attorneys, we have seen many car accidents that happened on the highway due to unsafe passing. This typically happens when the faster driver weaves in and out of lanes trying to pass the slower drivers. Vox published a helpful video that does a fair job explaining the danger of driving slowly in the left lane.
Texas is Cracking Down on Driving in the Left Lane
Texas DPS has ramped up its enforcement of left-lane citations in the last several years. DPS officials have noted that driving slowly in the left lane is a hazard and requires enforcement.
Whether it was a car wreck, a truck accident, or a wrongful death, if you or a loved one have been seriously injured on a Texas highway, contact our experienced Personal Injury Attorneys today for a free consultation and case evaluation.