It's a problem many drivers face on the interstate -- coming up behind a driver in the left lane traveing below the posted speed limit and who won't get out of the way. 

  • Viewer asks is the law 'slower traffic keeps right' enforced? 
  • FHP does enforce that law and suggests slower drivers to move out of the way of reckless drivers
  • The law is designed to keep traffic moving & minimize road rage
  • Bay News 9's Real Time Traffic Reporter Chuck Henson takes an in-depth look at transportation issues around the Bay area

There are laws in place asking slower drivers to move over, but one Bay News 9 viewer asked, are those laws enforced? 

Viewer Randy Jenkins wants people to understand what 'slower traffic keeps right' means. And according to Sergeant Steve Gaskins with the Florida Highway Patrol, those laws are enforced here. "Depending on what county you were to be stopped in, the fines may vary but will average about $150. There would be points on your driver's record," Sgt. Gaskins said. 

The law is designed to keep the traffic moving and to minimize road rage. 

Sgt. Gaskins said, "Because that's when people come up behind you.  We start tailgating.  We start honking horns, flashing lights. Trying to get around and pass you.  And people get aggravated very rapidly in their cars now-a-days especially in an urban environment like Tampa."

Just as there are speed limits, there are also minimum speeds on the interstates. However, some drivers just aren't comfortable driving at 70 miles per hour, but in those cases, they should stay to the right. 

"The law does not address a speed. This is a separate statute than all of the speed statutes. Basically saying that if you're in the left lane, you should drive as a normal course in the outside lane, the right lane and especially if being over taken, yes, you should move out of the person's way," stated Sgt. Gaskins. 

Be safe, move to the right, and allow the highway patrol to take care of those reckless drivers.