Fines Proposed For Driving Too Slowly In The Left Lane

North Carolina lawmakers are tackling an issue that resonates with many drivers around the state.

You've probably been there. You want to pass a car on the interstate, but the slowpoke ahead of you insists on staying in the left lane.

Several Senate Republicans feel your pain, and are taking action.

Senate Bill 303 would impose a $200 fine to drivers caught driving below the speed limit or “impeding the flow of traffic” in the left lane of a highway.

The News and Observer of Raleigh reports the fines would apply mainly to interstates and freeways.

North Carolina already requires slower vehicles to keep right, but doesn't currently have any penalties.

Senator Jeff Tarte of Mecklenburg County is co-sponsoring the bill. He says that drivers slowly cruising left lanes are contributing to highway congestion and road rage.

If the bill passes, North Carolina would join five other states cracking down on passing lane violations.