Stay Right Unless Passing On NJ’s Highways Or Face Stiffer Fines [AUDIO]

Few things tick off drivers more than being stuck behind a slow moving car in the left lane.

We've all seen it; drivers going less than the speed limit and refusing to move to the right and get out of our way. It's already against the law if motorists fail to stay right unless passing, but few get tickets for it and the fines aren't that steep anyway.

Today, the full State Senate will is scheduled to vote on a bill to address the issue.

Current state laws require motorists to remain in the right-most lane except when overtaking another vehicle or preparing for a left turn. State Senator Donald Norcross' bill would increase the maximum penalty from $100 to $300 for motorists that are cited for failing to observe the "keep right" law. The fines now range from between $50 and $200. $50 dollars from portion of each fine will be allocated strictly for the creation and maintenance of new signage to remind motorists to keep right when in New Jersey.

"At some point in time, whether on the Atlantic City Expressway, Route 295, or the Garden State Parkway, most of us have encountered the driver who refuses to leave the left lane, creating an unsafe traffic situation for all of us," says Norcross. "The increase in penalties and signage will help deter this behavior, reminding people that 'Keep Right' means keep right."

According to the National Motorist Association (NMA) website, observing lane courtesy laws results in safer, less congested roadways, improves gas mileage and reduces driver stress.

In a statement issued earlier this year, statement issued by Stephen Carrellas, Director of Government and Public Affairs for the New Jersey Chapter of the NMA said, "The National Motorists Association supports Senator Norcross' efforts to foster the smooth, safe and efficient flow of traffic on multi-lane highways by bringing attention to proper lane courtesy. "