Driving too slowly in the fast lane could soon become illegal in Georgia. Even though current legislation exists that targets those who impede traffic in the left lane, there is no real penalty for violators. It is also argued that the current law is not clear enough.
Georgia state Rep. Bill Hitchens (R-Rincon) introduced HB 459 on Feb. 22, 2013. This new bill would make it illegal to drive under the posted speed limit in the fast lane when another vehicle approaches behind you. The bill applies to all highways with more than one lane traveling in the same direction.
Hitchens, a 30-year veteran Georgia state trooper, believes that, “If you’re not driving the speed limit, you have a duty to get out of the way.” He explained the rationale by stating, “I always say it’s the manners your momma should have taught you; if someone pulls up behind you, you move to the right and let them by.”
One of the bill’s co-sponsors, Rep. Kevin Tanner (R-Dawsonville) said, “This type of behavior causes accidents and road rage and that type of thing.”
In 2010, a similar bill was passed in the House but died in the legislature. This earlier bill never reached the desk of Governor Sonny Perdue.
HB 459 actually amends Georgia Code Section 40-6-184 but attempts to clarify the existing legislation. It allows for exceptions like bad weather, road obstructions, special situations, road construction workers, law enforcement vehicles, and ambulances, but clearly calls for ticketing offenders.
If passed, the bill will become effective on July 1, 2013.
