Regulating truck use of left lanes across the U.S.

States in the United States continue to implement laws prohibiting trucks from using the left lane

In the United States, accidents and collisions involving semi-trucks are frequent due to specific traffic regulations. These incidents often result in serious injuries to passengers in other vehicles, contributing to high annual mortality rates. To address this issue, some states continue to implement laws prohibiting trucks from using the left lane.

The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association advocates for traffic laws that promote safe driving for both truckers and other motorists. They emphasize that efforts to restrict trucks from certain lanes pose significant challenges for truckers and jeopardize traveler safety. Nevertheless, legislation regarding the use of the left lane for large trucks is under consideration in multiple state legislatures.

States with new state laws on left lane use for trucks

Colorado

Governor Jared Polis of Colorado has signed a bill prohibiting trucks weighing at least 16,000 pounds from using the left lane on various stretches of Interstate 70. Formerly known as SB100, this measure affects areas such as Floyd Hill, Georgetown Hill, Eisenhower Tunnel, Dowd Junction, and Vail Pass, where there are at least three lanes in one direction. Offenders face fines of up to $100. The new law, aimed at improving safety, takes effect on August 7th.

Kentucky

Kentucky has implemented a new law prohibiting trucks from using the far-left lane on certain highways. Previously known as SB107, this regulation requires vehicles traveling on limited-access highways with a speed limit of at least 65 mph to stay in the right lane, except for passing, yielding, or when it’s unsafe to use the right lane. The law specifically applies to stretches with at least three lanes in the same direction. While some professional drivers expressed concerns about potential impacts, the legislation was supported by Sen. Jimmy Higdon, R-Lebanon, who argued it would enhance safety by preventing trucks from occupying the left lane for extended periods.

Florida

Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida vetoed a bill aimed at modifying left-lane rules for cars and trucks. The proposed legislation sought to prohibit vehicles from using the left lane if they were being overtaken by another traveling at a higher speed. Despite support from groups like OOIDA and the National Motorists Association to improve road safety and efficiency, DeSantis argued the bill was too broad and could lead to unjust fines and increased congestion in urban areas.

Michigan

In Michigan, a House committee has advanced a bill restricting the use of the left lane for trucks. The legislation prohibits all vehicles from using the left lane on highways with two lanes in one direction, except for passing. Additionally, commercial trucks weighing over 10,000 pounds cannot use the left lane on highways with three or more lanes in the same direction. The Transportation, Mobility, and Infrastructure Committee voted in favor of House Bill 5304, which clarifies this specific restriction to enhance road safety.