SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5052

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

As of January 23, 2017

Title: An act relating to modifying the penalty amount for certain left lane driving.

Brief Description: Modifying the penalty amount for certain left lane driving.

Sponsors: Senators Dansel and Palumbo.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Transportation: 1/23/17.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Increases the penalty for the traffic infraction of driving continuously in the left lane to $181.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Staff: Kim Johnson (786-7472)

Background: On all roads that have two or more lanes for traffic traveling in the same direction, vehicles must be driven in the right-hand lane unless (1) the vehicle is overtaking and passing another vehicle driving in the same direction, (2) the vehicle is traveling at a speed greater than the traffic flow, (3) the vehicle is moving left to allow traffic to merge, or (4) the vehicle is preparing for a left turn at an intersection, exit, or into a private road or driveway when a left turn is legally permitted.

High occupancy vehicle lanes are not considered the left-hand lane of a roadway.

It is a traffic infraction to drive continuously in the left lane of a multilane roadway when it impedes the flow of other traffic. The total penalty for this infraction is $136.

Summary of Bill: The base penalty for the traffic infraction of driving continuously in the left lane of a multilane roadway when it impedes the flow of other traffic is $70. The total penalty for the infraction after statutory assessments is $181.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.