On July 1, 2009, a new Kansas law goes into effect that makes it illegal to drive in the left lane of a multi-lane highway outside city limits – unless you are passing another vehicle, or exiting the highway. (Other exceptions are construction zones and accidents.) The new law does not apply to highways inside city limits.
Motorists who are pulled over for lingering in the left lane will be given warning tickets until July 2010. After that, officers will begin issuing $60 tickets.
The intent of the law is to improve the flow of traffic on Kansas highways, and make them safer by reducing the incidents of tailgating and road rage caused by slower drivers who get in the left lane and stay there while traffic bunches up behind them.
If you aren’t passing, stay to the right and leave the left lane for passing. Whether you agree with it or not – come July 1st – it’s the law.