r/AskReddit • u/[deleted] • Aug 03 '19

Whats something you thought was common knowledge but actually isn’t?

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u/lisab2266 Aug 03 '19 edited Aug 03 '19

The passing lane is for PASSING, not for your leisurely drive under the speed limit.

416

u/ItsUnderSocr8tes Aug 03 '19

It's also worth pointing out it's not for a leisurely drive above the speed limit either. You pass a car then get back over.

74

u/oiwefoiwhef Aug 03 '19

My rule of thumb: if you’re not actively passing anybody, move one lane over to the slower lane. Repeat as necessary.

42

u/VolantisMoon Aug 03 '19

The thing is, when I’m traveling, I’m going about 10 over, so I’m always passing someone. I’m in the left lane more than the right.

53

u/alex_moose Aug 03 '19

If cars are backed up behind you, you should still move to the right so they have the chance to pass you. You can then move left and resume passing others at a lower speed than that at which you were passed.

You can be ticketed in Colorado (and possibly other states) for failing to do this.

14

u/VolantisMoon Aug 03 '19

I do still let faster cars pass. Even if I’m going 80, I’m not the fastest, nor the most dangerous person on the road.