Incorrect, the left lane is only for passing only in certain states, and mainly on roads with only 2 lanes of traffic in each direction.
>The Uniform Vehicle Code states: Upon all roadways any vehicle proceeding at less than the normal speed of traffic at the time and place and under the conditions then existing shall be driven in the right-hand lane then available for traffic ...
>All states allow drivers to use the left lane (when there is more than one in the same direction) to pass. Most states restrict use of the left lane by slow-moving traffic that is not passing. The table below describes the law in effect in each state.
Right. In California trucks have a lower speed limit than cars, which results in what feel like pretty dangerous situations.
The right lane is pretty much for trucks going 55.
The left lane is a combination of:
* Trucks going 60-65 to pass a truck in the right lane
* 'Typical' cars who are going 75ish
* Fast cars who are going 80-90
So there is a huge disparity of speed in that lane -- and that disparity seems like it must be a huge factor in many highway accidents.
It always feels really dangerous. I wonder if it is safer than just having the trucks have the same speed limit as the cars.
The speed disparity can be a huge issue. Drive over the Donner Pass sometime or any major Western highway with lots of trucks and mountainous spots (i.e. most Western highways at some points) and the different speed combinations can be pretty nerve wracking to navigate.
