The new law hopes to cut crashes, ease traffic, and create safer, less stressful highways
The slow-moving driver in the left lane is not only causing frustration for those sharing the road, but also for those in the right lane. The driver is creating a risk of a car accident.
Connecticut is addressing the program through legislation, according to the CT Mirror. Starting Oct. 1, 2026, a new Connecticut law will give police the power to ticket drivers who “camp” in the passing lane without actively overtaking another vehicle.
How the law will help keep roads safe
Left-lane “camping” is not just frustrating. The driving behavior is dangerous. When a driver stays in the passing lane at a slower pace, it can:
- Force other drivers to make sudden lane changes, increasing crash risk
- Lead to tailgating and aggressive driving behavior
- Disrupt traffic flow, causing congestion and chain-reaction collisions
By clarifying the rules and reinforcing the “keep right, pass left” principle, Connecticut is taking steps to reduce these hazards and make highways more predictable.
What does the current law in Connecticut say?
The current law in Connecticut technically discourages prolonged left-lane driving, but it’s vague and difficult to enforce. The new legislation, sponsored by State Sen. Christine Cohen, removes the guesswork: unless you’re actively passing, preparing for a left-lane exit, or avoiding an obstruction, you need to keep right.
This rule won’t apply to two-lane highways, and there’s no fixed mileage threshold. Enforcement will be discretionary, with officers trained to identify clear violations.
How do other states handle left-lane driving?
Connecticut’s move mirrors laws in Massachusetts, New York, and many other states where left-lane restrictions have been linked to smoother traffic flow and fewer collisions. In these states, drivers who understand and follow the rule make roads safer and less stressful for everyone.
Before the law takes effect, the Connecticut Department of Transportation will launch an education campaign, add highway signage, and update driver’s education materials. The goal is to build a cooperative driving culture where lane discipline is the norm, not the exception.
How can left-lane ‘camping’ cause an accident?
Even before this law takes effect, left-lane camping can be a factor in determining liability in the event of a crash. If a driver’s lane-blocking forces others into unsafe maneuvers, they could be held responsible for resulting injuries and damages.
At the Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone and Morelli, our Connecticut car accident lawyers know how even minor acts of negligence, such as lingering in the wrong lane, can lead to major accidents on busy highways like I-84, I-91, and I-95, among others. If you’ve been hurt in a highway crash caused by another driver’s unsafe actions, our legal team is here to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Without help from a lawyer, you might face a frustrating ordeal with the insurance company. They might offer a lowball settlement or try to shift blame. That's when having a car accident lawyer in your corner can make a meaningful difference in the outcome of your case.
Our experienced attorneys will protect your rights and aggressively fight to pursue the maximum compensation you're entitled to under Connecticut law. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. Remember: keep right, pass left, and help keep Connecticut’s roads safe.
"10/10!!! I can’t thank the law offices of Mark E. Salomone and Morelli enough for helping me win my lawsuit after my car accident. From the very beginning, they were professional, compassionate, and incredibly thorough. They took the time to explain every step of the process, always kept me informed, and fought hard to make sure I received the compensation I deserved. What really stood out was how much they truly cared—not just about the case, but about me as a person. The team made a stressful situation feel manageable, and I always felt supported. If you’re looking for a law firm that will go above and beyond, I highly recommend this one! They are the real deal!" - Krystal G., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐