COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) - People who drive too slowly in the left lanes of South Carolina interstate highways could be fined under a bill a Senate Transportation subcommittee approved Thursday.
People who impede the flow of traffic by staying in the so-called fast lane too long would face fines between $75 and $150, Sen. Danny Verdin, R-Laurens, said. There would be no driver's license penalty points assessed for people convicted.
The fines wouldn't be imposed on drivers who don't have cars behind them, Verdin said. It would be up to the Highway Patrol to decide which drivers to stop.
The bill isn't intended to encourage speeding, Verdin said.
The Highway Patrol told the committee that people who lag in the left lane is one element of discourtesy that leads to road rage.
"Safety is the paramount issue here," Verdin said.
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On the Net:
Left lane bill: http://www.scstatehouse.net/sess115-2003-2004/bills/860.htm
