Key Takeaways:
- The "right-lane hog" is a common phenomenon in New Zealand where drivers stick to the right lane, going just below the speed limit, and ignore the queues of frustrated motorists forming behind them.
- Failing to keep left is technically illegal and can result in a $150 fine and 20 demerit points.
- Police do issue infringements for failing to keep left, but it’s not a high-priority offence.
- Safety experts want to see a shift in mindset around the keep left rule, especially as New Zealand builds more multi-lane highways.
- The AA recommends treating the right lane as a passing lane and returning to the left lane as soon as it is safe after overtaking.
Introduction to the Right-Lane Hog Phenomenon
The "right-lane hog" is a notorious phenomenon in New Zealand where drivers stick to the right lane, going just below the speed limit, and ignore the queues of frustrated motorists forming behind them. This behavior is not only annoying but also technically illegal, as drivers are required to keep left unless they’re overtaking, according to the Land Transport (Road User) Rule 2004. Despite the law, many motorists continue to flout this rule, and it’s become one of the most common road rules to be broken in the country.
Enforcement and Prioritization
Police do issue infringements for failing to keep left, but it’s not a high-priority offence. Inspector Peter McKennie, acting director of road policing, explains that police take enforcement action for failing to keep left in some circumstances, but not to the same extent as high-risk behaviors such as speed, impairment by alcohol, drugs or fatigue, being distracted while driving, and not using seat belts or child restraints. There are practical considerations, such as drivers preparing for exits or intersections and giving room for cyclists or road workers. However, even if a driver is going the speed limit and feels justified in staying put, they need to consider keeping the way clear for emergency service vehicles.
Safety Impacts and Consequences
Hogging the right lane can have indirect safety impacts, such as risky under-taking maneuvers or frustrated drivers taking chances they shouldn’t. Police encourage courteous driving behaviors, and drivers should be patient and wait until the situation changes and it is safe to pass. Recognizing that going a few kilometers per hour slower for a relatively short distance won’t make a meaningful difference to journey time is also important. Safety experts want to see a shift in mindset around the keep left rule, especially as New Zealand builds more multi-lane highways.
The AA’s Perspective on Lane Use
The AA wants to see a shift in mindset around the keep left rule, especially as New Zealand builds more multi-lane highways. AA road safety spokesperson Dylan Thomsen says the right lane should be treated as a passing lane, and drivers should return to the left lane as soon as it is safe after overtaking. Passing on the right is a more efficient maneuver, while passing on the left is significantly more dangerous. Travelling in the right lane unnecessarily shows a lack of awareness for other road users wanting to pass. The AA recommends that new drivers are taught to see correct lane use not only as a legal requirement but also as part of cooperative and considerate driving behavior.
Conclusion and Recommendations
In conclusion, the "right-lane hog" phenomenon is a common problem in New Zealand that can have safety impacts and consequences. While police do issue infringements for failing to keep left, it’s not a high-priority offence. Safety experts and the AA recommend treating the right lane as a passing lane and returning to the left lane as soon as it is safe after overtaking. By being more considerate and aware of other road users, drivers can promote efficient traffic flow and reduce the risk of accidents. So, next time you’re cruising in the right lane, ask yourself: Are you overtaking — or just in the way?
