Massachusetts Law Targets Left Lane Loitering, But speed isn’t the Sole Factor
BOSTON – Massachusetts drivers habitually cruising in the left lane could soon face a $100 fine, as state law increasingly focuses on keeping the far-left lane open for passing – not simply maintaining a speed. While exceeding the speed limit remains illegal nonetheless of lane, the law specifically addresses drivers impeding traffic flow by remaining in the left lane when not actively overtaking another vehicle.
The regulations stem from Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 89, Section 4, which originally required drivers to stay to the right on roads lacking a 400-foot unobstructed view or when ascending a grade. This has evolved to include restrictions on left lane usage, particularly for heavy commercial vehicles defined as those over 2.5 tons used for transporting goods, wares, and merchandise, which must stay in the right lane except to pass.
Beyond commercial vehicles, the law doesn’t explicitly prohibit slow speeds in the left lane, but rather prohibits remaining in it when not passing. A driver traveling at or below the speed limit in the left lane can be ticketed if they are impeding other vehicles. The maximum speed on most Massachusetts interstate highways is 65 mph, unless otherwise posted (Chapter 90, section 17A).
Massachusetts is among the majority of states with “Keep Right” laws, though enforcement and specifics vary. Connecticut recently passed legislation aligning it more closely with Massachusetts, allowing police to ticket drivers simply for cruising in the left lane without passing. All 50 states have some form of regulation regarding left lane usage, according to research from the Law Offices of Michael W. Leizerman.
