AMERICANS caught driving too slowly risk hefty penalties as part of a new crackdown.
And, the most serial offenders could be slapped with a punishment that sees them spend a month behind bars.
Drivers risk being slapped with traffic violations if they’re caught breaching a new law[/caption]
Under the August 1 crackdown, fines for driving too slowly in the left lane will rise.
In the US, the left lane is used by drivers to overtake.
Under the new law, drivers caught for going too slow risk a $150 penalty.
This marks an increase from $100 under the current rules.
And, under the old format, first-time offenders risked a 30-day jail sentence.
Road users who are caught for a second time within 12 months risk a $250 fine.
Those who are stopped for driving too slow a third time within the calendar year could face a $350 penalty or a 30-day jail sentence.
Drivers must stay in the right lanes if they are at least 10mph under the speed limit.
The rule will come into force across Louisiana.
And, it was introduced by Democratic state senator, Jay Luneau.
Luneau revealed the bill was brought forward after encountering road users who were driving too slowly in the left lane, as reported by the Louisiana Illuminator.
“I think this is something that we all encounter on a weekly basis,” he said.
Drivers must only use the left lane when they are turning left, or overtaking cars.
Meanwhile, a new law cracking down on drivers that camp in the left lane will be coming into force across Montana next year.
Offending drivers could be hit with penalties up to $142.
In Vermont, drivers who are caught traveling too slow in the left lane could be hit with a minimum $47 penalty, according to the Vermont Judicial Bureau.
What defines ‘distracted driving’?
Distracted driving claims lives every year nationwide, and it’s 100% preventable
However, many drivers assume that distracted driving is limited to using their phone while behind the wheel.
While using a phone to text, call, send emails, scroll through or post to social media, and make or accept video calls is illegal nationwide, other behaviors can be just as distracting – and dangerous.
Other behaviors that distract drivers:
- Adjusting the radio or GPS
- Applying makeup in visor mirrors
- Eating and drinking, as it takes one or both hands from the wheel
- Reaching into the backseat to grab personal items
- Rummaging through a purse, glove box, or center console
Thankfully, driving distracted can be prevented. Here are some proven tactics to stay focused:
- Put your phone in “Do Not Disturb” or “Driving Mode,” as it temporarily pauses notifications, but will push a call or text through if urgent
- If distraction is difficult to avoid, put the phone in a safe place, like a purse, glove box, center console, or back seat
- If a text message or call needs to be sent or made, pull over and park
- Give the phone to a passenger when applicable to send a text or make a call
- Be a role model – practicing safe driving in front of impressionable passengers helps pass along safe behaviors
Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Connecticut Department of Transportation
Drivers are warned to only pass cars at a safe distance, and they mustn’t attempt the maneuver when coming to the crest of a hill.
In New York, road users must follow the state’s Slow Poke Law.
Drivers could be slapped with a fine up to $150 and receive three points on their licenses.
They also risk a $93 surcharge on top of the fine.
The Slow Poke Law doesn’t apply when there are three marked lanes, and drivers are on a one-way road.
There is an exception to the law for drivers who are passing pedestrians, for example.
Drivers must check their speedometers before deciding the lane they are going to use (stock)[/caption]
