New statewide campaign reminds drivers that the left lane is for passing only
The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) has launched a new statewide public awareness safety campaign, “Pass Left. Drive Right,” to remind drivers that the left lane is for passing. The campaign encourages motorists to keep right except for when passing slower traffic, preparing for a left exit, or allowing other vehicles to merge safely.
Under Connecticut law, it is illegal to drive in the left lane on a multi-lane highway unless actively passing another vehicle, preparing for a left-hand exit, or avoiding an obstruction. Beginning October 1, 2026, new provisions will strengthen enforcement, and violators may face an $88 fine. This stems from a new law from last legislative session, which clarified that the law applies to all limited access highways with multiple lanes.
CTDOT’s campaign encourages drivers to learn and follow the law now to avoid penalties, reduce congestion, prevent aggressive driving, and make highways safer for everyone.
Watch the campaign TV spot here: “Pass Left. Drive Right.”
“Camping out in the left lane when you’re not passing creates frustration and unsafe conditions for everyone on the road,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “We want drivers to get into the habit to pass on the left, then move back to the right. It’s safer, it’s courteous, and it keeps traffic moving.”
Misuse of the left lane is a common source of frustration on highways for Connecticut drivers. Many motorists report frequently encountering vehicles that remain in the left lane without passing. CTDOT is raising awareness to improve driving habits before enhanced enforcement begins in 2026.
“Left-lane misuse causes unnecessary tailgating, weaving, and aggressive driving that can quickly lead to serious crashes,” said Colonel Daniel Loughman, Commanding Officer of the Connecticut State Police. “Troopers will keep educating and enforcing to ensure Connecticut’s highways are safe for everyone. The simple rule is pass on the left, then move right.”
The campaign, which began rolling out statewide in October 2025, features attention-grabbing ads and Connecticut-based spokespeople who remind drivers of the law and the $88 fine for violations. The initiative is part of CTDOT’s broader Drive to Save Lives program, which promotes safer driving behaviors statewide.
Here’s what drivers need to know:
- Keep Right Except to Pass: Use the right or middle lanes unless passing another vehicle or preparing for a left exit.
- Avoid Passing on the Right: It’s dangerous and can cause crashes.
- Don’t Tailgate: If someone is driving slowly in the left lane, stay patient and give them space.
- Move Over for Emergency Vehicles: Connecticut’s Move Over Law may require a temporary move into the left lane but return right as soon as it’s safe.
- Be Alert in Work Zones: Lane restrictions and reduced speeds are common in work zones. Always follow posted signs and move right when possible.
Changes to the statute CTDOT included in Public Act No. 25-65 last legislative session clarified that the law includes all limited access highways with multiple lanes.
For more information about Connecticut’s left lane law and safe driving practices, visit DriveToSaveLivesCT.com.