Are you breaking NY's left lane law without knowing it? What to know about the 'Slow Poke Law'

Yahoo

14-07-2025

One of the most frustrating parts of a long road trip is getting stuck behind a slow-moving vehicle — especially when that vehicle is lingering in the left lane.
In New York, drivers who camp out in the left lane may be doing more than just annoying others. They could be violating what's known as
Here's what drivers need to know:
Under New York Vehicle & Traffic Law (VTL) 1120(a), drivers must stay in the right lane unless one of the following exceptions applies:
Passing another vehicle moving in the same direction
Passing a pedestrian, bicyclist, animal, or road obstruction
Authorized to travel on the shoulder or slope
Driving on a road with three marked lanes
Driving on a one-way road
Additionally, VTL 1120(b) states:
'Any vehicle proceeding at less than the normal speed of traffic... must be driven in the right-hand lane available for traffic, or as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway — unless overtaking another vehicle or preparing for a left turn.'
The leftmost lane is designated as the passing lane. On roads with three or more lanes, the middle lanes are not considered passing lanes.
Even if a driver is traveling at or above the speed limit, remaining in the left lane without passing another vehicle is a violation of state law.
Violating the Slow Poke Law (VTL 1120) can result in:
3 points on your driver's license
A fine of up to $150 for a first offense
A $93 mandatory surcharge
Potential increases in auto insurance premiums
This citation may also be issued in conjunction with other violations, such as speeding or driving too slowly.
According to the , here are additional important laws drivers should follow:
Move over for emergency vehicles (VTL 1144(a))
Wear seat belts and use child safety seats (VTL 1229(c))
Don't follow too closely (VTL 1129(a))
Drive carefully in work zones (VTL 1180(f))
Use turn signals (VTL 1163)
Use headlights appropriately (VTL 375)
Watch for deer and wildlife (VTL 601)
No handheld cell phone use while driving (VTL 1225-C)
Never drive under the influence (VTL 1192(3))
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: NY 'Slow Poke Law': What drivers need to know about left lane rules