Stop tailgating me!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Stay out of the left lane.

+1
Timely message from the New Jersey State Police’s Facebook page today:

“Left Lane = Passing Lane

In New Jersey, the left lane on highways is not for cruising — it’s for passing only. Staying in the left lane when you’re not actively passing other vehicles is not only dangerous, it’s also against the law.

Here’s why it matters:
- Keeps traffic flowing smoothly
- Reduces road rage and aggressive driving
- Lowers the risk of accidents
- Helps emergency vehicles move efficiently

When drivers misuse the left lane, it creates unnecessary congestion and frustration. If you’re not passing, move over — it’s safer for everyone on the road.

Let’s work together to make New Jersey highways safer.

Keep right. Pass left. Drive Smart.”
Every other state has a similar law on the books.

NP but you're talking about highways. Most of the tailgating I see comes on regular roads. I get it- everyone wants to be going 60 down the 45mph road, but there are cars absolutely everywhere. The left lane isn't a passing lane when there's bumper to bumper traffic in all directions. We can't just have a vacant lane when roads are way over capacity.

The main issue is the amount of traffic lights everywhere. Who can get up to speed when there's a light every 1/4 mile? And none are timed, so you basically hit every single one of them. I think traffic lights increase road rage the most.

The "Slower traffic keep right" law is applicable to ALL lanes in VA, with multiple lanes. Not just highways. That includes Route 7, GW Parkway, Old Keene Mill, Reston Parkway, Rt 1, etc. Of course it's not possible when things are bumper to bumper, but in light to moderate traffic flow, you should not be cruising in the left lane of ANY road. Especially at or below the speed limit.

I might mostly agree with you, but the GW parkway is not subject to Virginia laws. It is a NPS road and only subject to Federal jurisdiction. Same applies to BW Parkway in MD for the same reason.

And in bumper to bumper traffic all lanes unavoidably will be clogged.