Police Stopping Slow Motorists Under New “Slow Poke” Law

Going too slow on Georgia’s roadways could result in a ticket.

The new “slow poke” law went into effect July 1 and requires slow drivers to make way for faster-moving vehicles.

However,  instead of issuing citations, law enforcement officers are giving out warnings for the next few weeks in order to get motorists more acquainted with the new law.

Under the Slow Poke law, a driver can be ticketed for hindering the flow of traffic.

The law specifically limits the use of the left lane for overtaking and passing another vehicle, obstructions in the right lane, and necessity arising from weather conditions.

While the dangers of speeding are well known, the Governor’s office of Highway Safety says driving too slowly, however, can be equally dangerous when driving too slow on a major thoroughfare like an Interstate highway.

The law passed in the 2014 session of the Georgia General Assembly. House Bill 459 was introduced by Representative Bill Hitchens who formerly led the Department of Public Safety.