A newly proposed state law could put you out of the fast lane on the interstate and highways in the State of Florida with few exceptions for drivers. 

SB258, proposed by State Senator Keith Perry (R, Dist. 9), would expand upon the state’s already in-place laws about driving in the far left lane in hopes of creating more interstate safety. 

The proposed additions to the state code include “prohibiting a driver from operating a 5 motor vehicle in the furthermost left-hand lane of 6 certain roadways, except under certain circumstances.

The exceptions are: if a driver is in a HOV lane, when immediately passing a slower vehicle, when making a left exit, and for emergency vehicles. 

Drivers caught riding the left lane without getting back over could face a moving violation. 

Florida Highway Patrol officials explained to ABC7 that state law currently allows for drivers to cruise in the left lane, but must yield and move over to the middle or right lanes if a driver is overtaking them at a higher rate of speed. 

Also adding that if drivers abide by current statutes, especially on the interstate, it could help keep the flowing movement of traffic and reduction of road rage and aggression. 

Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows 12,330 people died in crashes where speed was a factor in 2021 across the U.S. – 29% of all fatal crashes. 

Eleven months into 2023, in the State of Florida, 2,594 people have died in crashes, according to FHP data.

If passed, the law would take effect Jan. 1, 2025.