Adhere to Traffic Signs that say
"Left Lane is for Passing Only"
Everyone has probably noticed the addition of numerous signs along the highway that read "Left Lane for Passing Only."
The related statute governing the subject appears to be relatively unknown by the general driving public and, in the past, has been rarely enforced (probably one of the reasons that signs have been added.) Law enforcement officials are making an enforcement effort to get the driving public aware of the law and out of the left lane unless they are passing or turning left. In essence, Texas law prohibits driving in the left lane of multiple lane roadways unless for the purposes of passing other vehicles or making a left turn. Violators of this statute clog freeways and highways causing needless obstructions to the smooth flow of traffic, creating dangerous situations for everyone on the road. In the larger metropolitan areas, this violation is also cited in many road rage incidents.
So Be Aware!! The actual statue is quoted at the end of this article.
Note: that even if there was no specific statute for no driving in left lane except for passing (or for any other signs) - be aware that all signs you see/read on the highway arguably are covered by the catch all sign:
Note Also: Not obeying the posted signs is considered a Class C Misdemeanor, with a ticket fine minimum at $200, and up.
So Be Aware!! The actual statue is quoted at the end of this article.
Some other good generally related driving safety information and rules, as posted by Texas Department of Transportation for Highway Driving, are found at www.txdot.gov and outlined below:
Highway Driving
Speed Limits
The maximum speed limit on most interstate and state highways in Texas is 75 miles per hour, although in some areas the speed limit may be higher because of fewer people traveling on certain roads. Speed limits on state highways can and often are set lower than the maximum and drivers should always be alert for changes in posted speed limits and driving conditions.
Observing speed limits means more than driving faster or slower than the posted speed: it means driving to conditions. When it's raining or foggy, when ice is on the road, when traffic is heavy or when road construction is ahead, adjust your speed accordingly.
Keep Right
Watch for signs on Texas multi-lane highways that read "Left Lane For Passing Only." These signs let you know that the left lane on a divided highway is not a "fast" lane; it is a passing lane.
After you pass someone, move into the right lane once you've safely cleared the vehicle. Impeding the flow of traffic by continuing to drive in the left lane is punishable by a fine of up to $200.
Sharing the Road with Trucks
Trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds and may need up to 100 yards to stop. Here are some tips to help keep you safe when you drive near trucks:
- Maintain a safe following distance. When the vehicle in front of you passes a fixed object, you should be able to count at least two seconds before you pass the same object.
- Don't squeeze between trucks and the curb. Trucks make wide right turns, and the driver may not see you.
- When passing a truck, don't move back into your lane until you can see both truck headlights in your rearview mirror.
- Be aware of a truck's blind spots: up to 20 feet in front of the tractor, anywhere along the sides of the trailer and up to 200 feet behind the trailer.
- Never cross behind a truck that is backing up.
Move Over
When you approach a stopped emergency vehicle with lights flashing, state law requires that you:
- move a lane away from the emergency vehicle, or
- slow down 20 miles per hour below the posted speed limit.
Failure to comply could result in a fine of up to $200.
Give Yourself a Break
If your eyes close or go out of focus, you can't stop yawning, your thoughts wander or you're drifting between lanes, wake up: you're a "drowsy driver." Stay alert by doing the following:
- Get plenty of rest before your trip.
- Get out of your vehicle and stretch your legs every two hours. Rest for 15-20 minutes during each stop.
- Avoid driving between midnight and 6 a.m.
- Don't drink and drive - even small amounts of alcohol can impair your judgment and your reaction time.
Rest Areas
Take advantage of the more than 100 Safety Rest Areas and Travel Information Centers in Texas. At many stops, you can use free wifi, get current information on highway conditions, learn about local attractions and find picnic tables and other accommodations.
*********************545.051. DRIVING ON RIGHT SIDE OF ROADWAY
Even if it wasn't a statute specifically, this catch-all might have covered it:
Not obeying the posted signs is considered a Class C Misdemeanor with a ticket fine starting at $200 and going up from there.
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