Why driving slowly in the passing lane is dangerous and Illegal
You’ve experienced it. You’re cruising down I-91 or the Mass Pike, keeping up with the flow of traffic, and suddenly you’re stuck behind a driver in the left lane going 5 miles under the speed limit.
It’s frustrating. Traffic builds up, and what should be a smooth ride turns into a safety hazard. In Massachusetts, this is more than just annoying. It’s against the law. The Worcester Telegram & Gazette recently reported on the left-lane law, and it's something every driver in Massachusetts needs to understand.
What is the Massachusetts left-lane law?
Under state law, drivers must stay in the right lane unless they are:
- Actively passing another vehicle
- Preparing for a left turn
Even if the right lane is designated for something other than “ordinary travel,” drivers must use the lane adjacent to the right unless they’re passing. And if another vehicle is approaching from behind to overtake you, the law requires you to move over.
Put simply, you can’t “camp” in the left lane on a highway unless you’re actively passing.
For heavy commercial vehicles – those over 2.5 tons carrying goods – the rules are even stricter. They must remain in the far-right lane, only using the lane next to it for passing, and no other lanes except in emergencies.
Why left-lane cruising is dangerous
Many drivers think slow speeds are always safer, but that’s not true in the left lane. Driving too slowly in the passing lane can:
- Cause sudden lane changes as faster drivers attempt to go around you
- Lead to tailgating and aggressive driving behavior
- Disrupt traffic flow, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions and sideswipes
- Create bottlenecks that can trigger multi-car accidents
Traffic safety experts agree that maintaining consistent speeds and adhering to proper lane discipline help keep highways safer for everyone.
Can drivers speed to pass in the left lane?
Some drivers assume they can exceed the speed limit while passing in the left lane. That’s also against the law. In Massachusetts, the top speed on most interstate highways is 65 mph unless signs say otherwise. Passing is not an excuse to speed.
Is Massachusetts’ left-lane law similar to other states?
All 50 states have “Keep Right” laws, but details vary. Most New England states have rules similar to Massachusetts. For instance, Connecticut recently strengthened its law, allowing police to ticket drivers who linger in the left lane without passing, a practice similar to the one in the Bay State.
What should you do if you're injured in an accident on the highway?
If a slow driver’s behavior in the left lane causes an accident, they may be held liable for damages. This could apply in cases where left-lane blocking leads to unsafe lane changes, chain-reaction crashes, or rear-end collisions.
At the Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone, we’ve seen how poor lane discipline can turn highways into danger zones. If you or someone you love has been injured in a crash caused by another driver’s negligence, we’re here to help. Our legal team can investigate the circumstances of your accident, determine liability, and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve under Massachusetts law.
Don’t let someone else’s unsafe driving leave you paying the price. Contact us today for a free consultation. Tell them..."You Mean Business."
"If you’re looking for a legal team that truly stands out, the Law Office of Mark E. Salomone is it. They guided my sister through her case with unmatched professionalism, genuine care, and results that exceeded expectations. She says they are the best she’s ever worked with—and after seeing the difference they made, I believe it. I strongly recommend them to anyone who wants not just a lawyer, but a true advocate." - Juan G., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐