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How Fast Should I Be Going in the Fast Lane?
You should maintain the posted speed limit in the fast lane (left lane on a highway).
Contrary to its name, the fast lane is not meant for you to go at higher speeds but is intended as a passing lane to pass a slow vehicle.
In all U.S. states, the fast lane must be used as a passing lane, including Nevada, as stated under NRS 484B.600, which outlines the state speeding laws.
What Is the Fast Lane
The fast lane, often referred to as the leftmost lane on highways, is a lane that is designed to pass slow-moving traffic.
On highways, the left-hand lane should not be used to exceed the speed limit, as speed limits still apply to drivers in the left lane.
Instead, it should be used as a passing lane to pass vehicles driving slowly, after which a driver should immediately return to the right lane.
Is the Left Lane for Passing Only
Yes, the left lane is only meant for passing cars traveling at lower speeds than you.
How to Correctly Use the Left Lane
When looking to use the left lane to pass a slow driver, you must understand how to correctly use the passing lane to avoid potential traffic penalties or car accidents.
Proper use of the left lane will include:
- Passing Then Returning: When using the left lane to pass a vehicle driving slowly, you must safely merge back into the right lane once you completed passing the vehicle. Lingering in the leftmost lane could create traffic congestion and frustration among drivers, which could, unfortunately, lead to road rage.
- Follow the Speed Limit: Even while in the left lane, you must obey the post-speed limits; exceeding the limit could result in fines or other penalties.
- Yield to Faster Traffic: If you are planning to use the left lane and are going a couple of mph slower than a vehicle already in it, you should yield to the car already in the leftmost lane and allow it to pass before merging into it.
- Understand the Conditions: Before you attempt to merge into the leftmost lane and pass surrounding traffic, you should take into account the road, weather, and traffic conditions, as in some scenarios, it may be safer for you to stay in your lane.
Using these guidelines above will allow you to safely and legally use the lane most lanes on multi-lane highways.
Punishments for Breaking the Left Lane Law
Improper use of the left lane can result in penalties, especially if it creates problems in traffic flow or results in a car accident.
In Nevada, drivers may be cited for obstructing traffic if they violate the left lane law outlined under NRS 484B.208 and face penalties such as:
- Fines: A driver who drives slowly or occupies the leftmost lane for an extended period may face fines ranging from $50 to $200. The traffic citation's severity depends on the violation's circumstances and whether it was a repeat offense.
- Demerit Points: Breaking traffic laws, such as the left lane law, can result in demerit points being added to your driving record, which, if you get twelve or more within a 12-month period, your license will be suspended.
- Higher Insurance Rates: If you cited a traffic ticket, the insurance company may consider you to be high risk and increase your insurance rates.
If you believe you have been unjustifiably given a ticket for breaking the left lane law, you should contact a local defense attorney and explain your situation.
What Lane Should Slow Drivers Drive-In
Slow drivers should remain in the right lanes.
This is because the right-hand lanes, such as the far right and middle lane, are meant for drivers traveling below or at the speed limit.
In addition, the right lane is where drivers who use the left lane to pass should immediately return after passing.
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