SANTA BARBARA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA — The California Highway Patrol is reminding drivers that traveling too slowly in the left lane can create dangerous traffic conditions after a motorist was cited on US-101 in the Santa Barbara area.
CHP Santa Barbara said the driver was spotted traveling southbound on US-101 south of Linden at 58 mph in the No. 1 lane, also known as the left lane.
Driver Accused of Holding Up Traffic
According to CHP, the vehicle was moving slowly enough in the left lane that at least five other vehicles passed on the right because of the traffic backup.
A CHP officer stopped the driver and issued a citation for violating California Vehicle Code Section 21654(a), which requires slower traffic to move into the right lane.
Once stopped, the driver told the officer that the vehicle “drives very slow because it has a lot of miles on it.”
CHP Says Left Lane Is for Passing
CHP said driving too slowly can be just as dangerous as driving too fast, especially when it causes congestion and unsafe passing.
“The left lane is intended for passing,” CHP said.
The agency warned that remaining in the passing lane while traveling significantly below the flow of traffic can create congestion, frustration, and increase the risk of unsafe lane changes and crashes.
CHP said drivers whose vehicles cannot safely keep up with traffic should move to the right lane and allow other vehicles to pass.
Drivers Urged to Keep Right and Maintain Vehicles
CHP also reminded motorists to make sure their vehicles are properly maintained.
The agency urged drivers to keep right except to pass, maintain a safe and reasonable speed for conditions, and stay courteous and aware of surrounding traffic.
No crash or injuries were reported in connection with the traffic stop.
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