New Louisiana law targets slow drivers in passing lane

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) — A new Louisiana law is targeting slow drivers. It says if you are not passing, stay out of the left lane; it’s not just a common courtesy, but it can now result in a ticket.

Starting August 1, driving slowly in the passing lane could cost you money, and Shreveport police say it could also cost lives.

“The lane is designed for passing, and individuals that are driving slower than the speed limit in that lane are actually causing more traffic accidents,” said Cpl. Chris Bordelon.

Bordelon says that from 18-wheelers to distracted drivers, not moving over can be deadly, and you do not want to draw attention to yourself because you might not like the results.

“Unfortunately, in a couple of these cases, they’ve resulted in fatality.”

“People do not need to drive below the speed limit in the left-hand lane because that lane is designed for passing,” said Bordelon. “Typically, what we’re going to be seeing is officers that are traveling on these roadways are going to be paying more attention to individuals in that left-hand lane.”

District 4 state representative Joy Walters is one of the state lawmakers who backed the law.

“Scoot over, move over so that people who are going faster than you can actually pass you,” said Walters. “In fact, it may save your life.”