Trending
CHARLESTON -- A bill aimed at slowpokes driving in the left lane was introduced in the West Virginia House of Delegates.
It's a common frustration for West Virginia drivers, according to Delegate Gary Howell, R-Mineral, the chairman of the House Government Organization Committee.
House Bill 2355 would make it illegal to continuously drive a vehicle in the left lane of a highway while other traffic is attempting to pass.
"This has to be one of the biggest complaints we hear from motorists. Why is it that some people just can't seem to get out of the left lane when other people are trying to pass?" Howell said. "It's time we crack down on these nuisance drivers."
The bill makes it a misdemeanor to continuously operate a vehicle in the left lane of a multilane roadway and impeding the flow of other traffic. A first-offense conviction would carry a $100 fine while each subsequent offense would be a $200 fine.
It's a matter of convenience and public safety, Howell said.
"Many interstate accidents occur while people are attempting to change lanes," Howell said. "Forcing people to change lanes to get around a slow driver can pose a safety hazard to innocent motorists."
While West Virginia drivers are taught the left lane is to be used for passing, out-of-state drivers are not taught this lesson, Howell said. Howell hopes the legislation will be a message to motorists to improve courtesy and safety on West Virginia roadways.
"The purpose of this bill is to eliminate a nuisance that has bothered West Virginia drivers for years," Howell said. "Hopefully, if we start cracking down on this poor behavior, we can improve the safety and peace of mind for all who use our roads."
HB 2355 has been referred to the House Technology and Infrastructure Committee. Upon passage there, it will go to the Judiciary Committee for review.