DID YOU KNOW?
Illinois State Police are cracking down on drivers that violate Illinois’s “Left Lane Law,” which makes it a violation to drive in the far-left lane (A.K.A. the “passing lane”) on area expressways and tollways (see 625 ILCS 5/11-701). This law, which went into effect on January 1, 2017, allows police officers to ticket drivers who drive in the far-left lane for extended periods of time. There are exceptions, however, for when drivers are permitted to use this lane for anything other than overtaking and passing another vehicle. For example, when there is heavy traffic or congestion in the right lane, or when there is some sort of hazard or obstruction in the right lane, drivers may use the left lane until the congestion or hazard has subsided. Drivers may also use the left lane to prepare for a left-sided exit ramp or to use automated I-Pass lanes. And don’t follow the lead of police cars, ambulances or construction vehicles that spend extended time in the left lane – emergency vehicles are exempt from the Left Lane Law. Your best tactic is to keep to the right whenever possible, unless you experience one of the roadway or traffic conditions outlined above. And remember – even when properly passing another vehicle, it must be done within posted speed limits or you risk being pulled over and ticketed for speeding.
Should you or someone you know find yourself in need of an attorney to deal with a Left Lane Law violation, or any other traffic ticket or infraction, the experienced attorneys at Castlebrook Law can help you get back on the road. Give our office a call today at 847-844-0698 to set up your free consultation!