Riding on the left is a widespread practice, although it is prohibited. But what are the rules in force, as well as the penalties?
All of us have pissed off a driver who has decided to stay in the left lane, sometimes traveling at a slower speed than other vehicles. This behavior is irritating for other motorists, which can also create unnecessary congestion while putting other road users in danger. However, and despite the fact that it is totally prohibited by the Traffic Laws, this practice remains however very widespread on the French highways. Indeed, many motorists more or less deliberately squat the leftmost line, as well as the one in the middle, for more or less obscure reasons. Willingness to go faster, not having to brake all the time to let others fit in in order to save time and consume less … in short, all excuses are good not to drive on the right on the highway .
For its part, the Highway Code leaves no doubt about the illegality of this practice, while thearticle R412-9 stipulate that ” in normal operation, all drivers must keep their vehicle close to the right edge of the roadway, as far as the condition or profile of the road allows “. In addition, it is also specified that ” the fact, for any driver, of not maintaining, in normal operation, his vehicle near the right edge of the roadway is punished by the fine provided for the fines of the second class “. This is pretty clear. But precisely, what is the sanction provided for offenders? Rest assured, you won’t risk losing a single point on your driver’s license. Indeed, if the police take your hand in the bag occupying without reason the left lane, you then incur a fixed fine of € 35, reduced to € 22.
When can you drive on the left?
Of course, the left lane is not closed to traffic, and it is quite possible to put the wheels there, provided this is done properly. Indeed, the Highway Code stipulates that you can drive on the left only within the framework of a exceeding. Once this is done, you must then return to the rightmost lane to continue driving. In addition, if you are confronted with a motorist traveling on the left or in the middle, be vigilant and do not try to pass him on the right. Even if it is unfair, the sanction is then much more important, since you risk a withdrawal of three points on your driving license, in addition to a fixed fine of 135 €, reduced to 90 € in the event of payment. fast.
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Riding on the left is a widespread practice, although it is prohibited. But what are the rules in force, as well as the penalties?
All of us have pissed off a driver who has decided to stay in the left lane, sometimes traveling at a slower speed than other vehicles. This behavior is irritating for other motorists, which can also create unnecessary congestion while putting other road users in danger. However, and despite the fact that it is totally prohibited by the Traffic Laws, this practice remains however very widespread on the French highways. Indeed, many motorists more or less deliberately squat the leftmost line, as well as the one in the middle, for more or less obscure reasons. Willingness to go faster, not having to brake all the time to let others fit in in order to save time and consume less … in short, all excuses are good not to drive on the right on the highway .
For its part, the Highway Code leaves no doubt about the illegality of this practice, while thearticle R412-9 stipulate that ” in normal operation, all drivers must keep their vehicle close to the right edge of the roadway, as far as the condition or profile of the road allows “. In addition, it is also specified that ” the fact, for any driver, of not maintaining, in normal operation, his vehicle near the right edge of the roadway is punished by the fine provided for the fines of the second class “. This is pretty clear. But precisely, what is the sanction provided for offenders? Rest assured, you won’t risk losing a single point on your driver’s license. Indeed, if the police take your hand in the bag occupying without reason the left lane, you then incur a fixed fine of € 35, reduced to € 22.
When can you drive on the left?
Of course, the left lane is not closed to traffic, and it is quite possible to put the wheels there, provided this is done properly. Indeed, the Highway Code stipulates that you can drive on the left only within the framework of a exceeding. Once this is done, you must then return to the rightmost lane to continue driving. In addition, if you are confronted with a motorist traveling on the left or in the middle, be vigilant and do not try to pass him on the right. Even if it is unfair, the sanction is then much more important, since you risk a withdrawal of three points on your driving license, in addition to a fixed fine of 135 €, reduced to 90 € in the event of payment. fast.
Also read on Auto-Moto.com:
Middle lane on the motorway: what does the law say?
Can I park in front of my own garage door?
What if my neighbor parks in front of my garage?