Can Trucks Drive in the Left Lane in Florida?
Many people understand that the left lane of the highway is for faster traffic. If you are moving slower than the driver behind you, you should safely move over to the right lane and allow them to pass. However, if a driver is operating a truck, there is a lot more to consider in terms of safety and legality.
It’s no secret that large trucks pose a danger at high speeds. This is why Florida has moved to impose restrictions governing what lanes trucks can legally drive in. To help make sure you don’t run afoul of these regulations, continue reading to learn more about the legality of trucks driving in the left lane in Florida.
The Leftmost Lane and Six-Lane Interstates
Florida law prevents commercial trucks from driving in the leftmost travel lane on six-lane interstates. This does not mean the lane furthest to the left. Instead, the law applies to the furthest inside lane to the left.
This means that it is perfectly legal for commercial trucks to drive in the leftmost lane on many of Florida’s freeways. The restriction described previously only applies to specific stretches along I-75 and I-95. Consequently, the law does not apply to state highways.
Additionally, it is important to emphasize that this law does not apply to the entirety of I-75 and I-95, just the specific stretches that have six lanes. The Florida Department of Transportation has a handy interactive map on its website that can help dispel any confusion. The map indicates areas where trucks are restricted from driving.
Why the Florida Truck Lane Restrictions Exist
Florida officials claim the main reasons why these restrictions exist is to promote the safety of those who travel the state’s roads. The thinking behind this concerns the fact that the law was designed to prevent truck drivers from weaving in and out of lanes in an attempt to pass other traffic.
Consequently, this reduces the chances of the truck wrecking into another vehicle and causing a nasty car accident. It also helps alleviate the congestion accompanying two trucks driving side-by-side, unable to pass one another.
The Rule Doesn’t Apply to Every Vehicle
Unfortunately, there are a variety of vehicles that can cause severe damage above and beyond a regular car in the event of a collision. However, Florida’s rule only applies to commercial trucks, such as tractor-trailers. This means the rule does not apply to tour buses, recreational vehicles, etc.
All Florida residents should be aware of this rule, regardless of what kind of vehicle they drive. That’s because drivers operating smaller vehicles should still conduct themselves with caution when passing a commercial truck or tractor-trailer. This is part of every driver’s duty of care, which is intended to keep everyone on the road safe.
Staying Safe on Florida’s Roads
Being aware of this law will give you the means to keep yourself and any passengers in your vehicle safe from an accident. A thorough understanding of what commercial trucks are able to do on the highway will allow you to better anticipate their movements so you can conduct your commute accordingly.
What To Do If You Are Involved in a Truck Accident in Florida
If you are in an accident involving a truck, it is important to know that you have legal recourse. If another driver on the road broke the law or otherwise acted negligently or recklessly, and as a result, you were injured, you have the option of securing legal representation and filing a claim against the negligent driver.
Contact the Jacksonville Truck Accident Law Firm of Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers Today For Help
For more information, please contact the Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra truck accident law firm of Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers at the nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
We serve Duval County, St. Johns County, and its surrounding areas:
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Jacksonville
9471 Baymeadows Rd #105,
Jacksonville, FL 32256
(904) 396-1100
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Downtown Jacksonville
121 W Forsyth St Suite 1000,
Jacksonville, FL 32202
(904) 822-4225
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Ponte Vedra
480 Town Plaza Ave #130,
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081
(904) 675-1167