New Oklahoma law reserves left lane only for passing

TULSA, Okla. (AP) – A new Oklahoma law is making it official: Slower drivers need to move to the right.

The Tulsa World reports that a new law taking effect on Nov. 1 states that the left lane on multilane roadways in Oklahoma will be for passing only, not traveling.

Oklahoma Highway Patrol Trooper Dwight Durant says vehicles in the left lane will be required to move to the right if another vehicle comes up from behind, allowing the faster-moving vehicle to pass. The law includes some exemptions, including the potential of merging traffic, executing a left turn and moving over for stopped or emergency vehicles.

Fines for traveling in the left lane are about $235. Lawmakers passed the statute in May, hoping to prevent collisions caused by a congested left lane and reduce road rage.