June is National Lane Courtesy Month

You know you've been there. Cruising along in the left lane, only to get stuck behind someone driving ten miles an hour below the speed limit.

Slower drivers blocking the left traffic lane are one of the most common annoyances drivers face. With that in mind, the National Motorists Association has designated June as Lane Courtesy Month.

According to a press release from the NMA, better lane courtesy improves traffic flow and saves money on fuel costs, as well as helps prevent accidents.

"The Summer Driving Season is upon us. People want to get out there and enjoy themselves. Lane Courtesy is a part of that," says Aaron Quinn, NMA Communications Director. "The NMA wants driving to be safer and more pleasurable for all motorists. That's why we promote Lane Courtesy Month. This June marks the fifth anniversary of this designation."

Slow drivers in the left lane increases traffic congestion and aggressive driving behaviors such as lane weaving, tailgating and speed fluctuations-all of which waste gas and can cause accidents. Common lane courtesy, when faster drivers take the left lane and slower drivers the right, allows for smooth traffic flow and less acceleration. By maintaining a constant speed, cars burn less gas. With gas prices topping $3 a gallon in most areas, lane courtesy can make a big financial impact.

According to the Lane Courtesy website, government agencies spend billions of dollars to promote road safe behaviors like adherence to posted speed limits and seatbelt laws, but little is done to promote lane courtesy. Road rage is also reduced when lane courtesy is observed.

Currently, six states require drivers to move right if they are impeding left lane traffic, but most states follow the Uniform Vehicle Code, which requires drivers to move right if they are blocking left lane traffic regardless of speed limit. Alaska's rule 13 AAC 002.50 allows drivers traveling at the posted speed limit to use the left lane, regardless of the speed of other traffic. Governor Jeb Bush of Florida recently vetoed a bill that would have reserved the left lane for passing, saying that drivers the block the left lane are "cautious and careful."

The NMA encourages motorists to contact state lawmakers and urge them to support stronger lane courtesy laws and enforce existing laws.

The Lane Courtesy website also offers tips for safer (and more sane) driving, such as matching your speed with the flow of traffic and passing other motorists promptly and deliberately.

Sources: Press Release: June is Lane Courtesy Month
Lane Courtesy Website: www.lanecourtesy.org