Many roads have two or more lanes heading the same direction, so it’s important to be conscious of the lane in which you travel. Driving in the wrong lane can impede traffic or frustrate other drivers, causing unsafe driving conditions. For example, driving too slowly in the left lane may cause other drivers to attempt unsafe passing maneuvers.
Here are some tips for choosing the correct lane and driving safely:
- When driving in the right lane, move to the left whenever possible to allow vehicles to merge on or off the highway.
- The right lane is for slower traffic and the left lane is for faster traffic. Driving in the center lane provides more avenues for vehicles to get on and off the road safely.
- Move over for emergency vehicles. Most states have laws that require you to move over or stop for emergency or maintenance vehicles.
- When choosing your lane on divided roadways, drive in the right lane during hours of increased hazard.
- Drive in the lane that is the least congested and has a smooth flow of traffic. Don’t weave in and out of lanes.
- Position your vehicle to keep up with the flow of traffic, but don’t exceed the speed limit. If other drivers exceed the speed limit, move to the right lane and slow down.
- When driving on a road with three lanes, choose the middle lane for the smoothest driving. Use the left lane to pass and the right lane to drive slowly, enter or exit a road.
- Be sure to stay out of other vehicle’s blind spots.
- When choosing your lane on undivided two-lane roadways, stay well centered in your lane. Driving to the left of your lane places you further from oncoming traffic in case they stray right, and driving to the right of your lane creates a hazardous situation for any pedestrians or motorist located on the shoulder of the roadway.
Your safety and the safety of others on the road depends on your smart driving decisions. Follow these tips for choosing the correct lane while driving.