1 of 2 2 of 2

The B.C. Government is making good on its crackdown on slow drivers in the left lane on provincial highways.

As of today (June 12), drivers caught in the left-most lane on multi-lane roads where the speed limit is 80 kilometres or greater risk a $167 fine and three demerit points if they get caught by police.

The province says exceptions include passing another vehicle, moving left to allow traffic to merge, and preparing for a left-hand turn.

In a release, Transportation Minister Todd Stone said, “One of the top driver frustrations across the province was being prevented from passing because someone won’t leave the left lane. We have strengthened the law to give police better tools to crack-down on left-lane hogs.”

“Drivers who block the left lane increase the risk caused by aggressive drivers who will pass on the right or tailgate,” said Chief Neil Dubord, chair of the B.C. Association of Chiefs of Police–Traffic division. “This change provides clarity to police officers who will enforce the requirement for vehicles to travel in the right lane.”

Another change now allows the ministry to to define winter tires, studded tires, and traction devices like chains in regulation.