Services
Insurance
Loans
Repairs
Advice
About

Is driving too slowly illegal?

I’m noticing more often lately that there are really slow drivers hogging the fast lane on the freeway. I get that everyone has the right to drive in whatever lane they want, but the fast lane is supposed to be for passing, and instead, we’re all held up going 55 mph behind a Prius. This can’t be legal. Can people be fined for driving too slowly?

avatar
Michelle Ballestrasse · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
There are few things more frustrating than being stuck behind a slow driver in the passing lane. People tend to think that slow driving is safe driving, but there are plenty of times where that simply isn’t the case. And that’s why yes, it is illegal to drive too slowly, although there are caveats.
Some states, like California and Alabama, have a designated minimum speed limit, but most states do not. Because there isn’t a federal speed limit, states are left to determine what speeds are acceptable on highways at their own discretion. So in most places, what is considered driving too slowly is a speed that can be
dangerous
to other drivers on the road.
This includes going too slowly in the passing lane, which is not meant to be used as a typical driving lane. But overall, if a person is driving slowly to the point that they’re impeding the flow of traffic, or presenting a hazard to other drivers, they absolutely
can be cited for it
.
But remember that safe driving means obeying the speed limit and also the current road conditions. Speeding tickets can still be doled out if you’re driving too fast for slippery roads or poor visibility.
So drive smart! Don’t use the left lane as a driving lane, keep your speed reasonable, pay attention to everyone around you, and make sure you’ve got up-to-date
car insurance
. And whether it’s time to renew or it’s time to find better rates,
Jerry
can help you find the right policy at the right price!
View full answer 
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings