What is middle lane hogging?
Middle lane hogging is where the left lane is relatively free of cars but a driver still remains in the middle lane instead of only using it for over taking. According to Irish Road Traffic legislation, you must return to the left hand lane after overtaking a slower-moving vehicle and remain in the left hand lane if the road ahead is clear.
What’s wrong with middle lane hogging?
It not only causes road rage and undertaking (overtaking to the left of the car) which is extremely dangerous but it can lead to congestion. As the inside or left hand lane is not being used properly the remaining traffic is limited to the middle and outside lanes.
Statistics from a survey on over 2,000 motorists in the UK:
- 6 out of 10 motorists admitted to middle lane hogging.
- 43% of the hoggers drove in the middle lane as it was an “easier way to drive” and “saves me changing lanes”.
- A quarter of the hoggers said they do it because “it is a safer way to drive on the motorway”.
- 38% of hoggers said they only do it when the road is quiet.
- 18% said it was a driving habit.
Statistics Source: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/
‘Hogging’ a lane in Ireland could get you €60 fine and a penalty point, is that enough?
Words by Niall
