Hogging the left lane is going to cost from now on.
Provincial legislation came into effect Friday requiring drivers on multi-lane highways where the speed is more than 80 kilometres per hour to stay to the right unless they are overtaking and passing another vehicle, moving left to allow traffic to merge, preparing for a left hand turn or moving left to pass an official vehicle displaying a flashing light.
There are exceptions.
When traffic is minimal and no one is approaching from behind, a driver can travel in the left-most lane.
"This allows drivers on four-lane highways in rural areas to keep a greater distance from the road sides where they might encounter wildlife," the Ministry of Transportation said.
And if you're in the Lower Mainland during periods of congestion that force actual travel speeds down to 50km/h or less, drivers are encouraged to use left left-most lane to keep traffic flowing.
Police can ticket drivers who should not be travelling in the left-most lane. The fine is $167, with three driver penalty points.
One other change has come into effect. Local governments can now permit motorcycle
parking within six metres of intersections with stop signs or signals, as long as drivers' views are not impeded.
"This will allow more efficient use of space that is not large enough for a car," the Ministry said.
