Have You Been Charged with Impeding the Flow of Traffic in Georgia?
Georgia drivers are very familiar with laws regarding speeding and even Georgia's Super Speeder law. However, people are often surprised that it is also a crime to drive too slow. Georgia legislators developed a law that prohibits driving at slow speeds where it interferes with other drivers on the road. This law is known as impeding the flow of traffic. If you have been charged with impeding the flow of traffic or another traffic violation in Georgia, call our Georgia Traffic Ticket Attorneys today. Even though traffic ticket convictions are only misdemeanors, they can result in points on your license which can lead to a license suspension. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
Georgia Law on Impeding Traffic
O.C.G.A. § 40-6-184 states that impeding the flow of traffic manifests when
a person drives a motor vehicle at such a slow speed as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic, except when reduced speed is necessary for safe operation.
This rule is also called the “Slow Poke” law, and it was introduced in 2014. The rule was designed to improve traffic congestion by freeing up the left lane for drivers moving faster. It also hoped to reduce accidents that result from drivers following the slow driver too closely.
Exceptions to Impeding the Flow of Traffic in Georgia
There are some situations where drivers can stay in the left lane. These include:
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When traffic conditions or congestion make it necessary to drive in the passing lane;
- When inclement weather, obstructions, or hazards make it necessary to drive in the passing lane;
- When compliance with a law of this state or with an official traffic control device makes it necessary to drive in the passing lane;
- When a vehicle must be driven in the passing lane to exit or turn left;
- On toll highways, when necessary to pay a toll or use a pass;
- To authorized emergency vehicles engaged in official duties; or
- To vehicles engaged in highway maintenance and construction operations.
Penalty for Impeding the Flow of Traffic in Georgia
A conviction for impeding the flow of traffic will lead to a fine up to $1,000 as well as accumulating 3 points on your license. If you are under 21 years of age, an accumulation of 4 or more points will result in an automatic license suspension. For drivers over 21, an accumulation of fifteen or more points can result in a license suspension. Additionally, you should expect your car insurance premiums to increase.
Georgia Defenses to a Charge for Impeding the Flow of Traffic
I was driving at a safe speed: Even if the speed was below the speed limit, it was necessary in order to stay safe. This could be due to the road conditions, weather conditions, or other adverse conditions.
I needed to turn left: If you were turning left soon and needed to get over, that would be a defense. However, there is no language stating how close the turn needs to be in order for you to be justified in driving in the left lane.
I was passing slower traffic: If there was slow traffic in the right lane and you were still passing them by driving slow in the left lane with the intent of getting over once passed, that could be an adequate defense.
The car in front of me was driving slow: If you were stuck behind a car that was driving slow and were unable to pass, let your lawyer know and we can use that to bolster your case.
Contact Us Today
Our Traffic Ticket Lawyers in Georgia know what it takes to win cases and achieve a favorable outcome in your case. This is not an exhaustive list of arguments we can use to defend you. Call now for a free case evaluation and see how our Georgia Impeding the Flow of Traffic Lawyers can help you!
