The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) started a new safety campaign across the state called “Pass Left. Drive Right.” It reminds drivers to use the left lane only for passing. Stay in the right lane unless you are passing slower cars, getting ready for a left exit, or letting other vehicles join safely.
Connecticut law says you cannot stay in the left lane on highways with more than one lane unless you are passing, turning left soon, or going around something in your way. From October 1, 2026, police will enforce this more strictly, and you could get an $88 fine. This comes from a new law passed last year that makes the rule clear for all multi-lane highways.
The campaign wants drivers to follow the rule now. This will help avoid tickets, cut down traffic jams, stop risky driving, and keep roads safer.
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.”
Many Connecticut drivers get upset about cars that hog the left lane. CTDOT is spreading the word to change habits before stricter checks start in 2026. “Blocking the left lane leads to close following, lane switching, and anger that causes bad crashes,” said Colonel Daniel Loughman of the Connecticut State Police. “Officers will teach and ticket to keep highways safe. Pass left, drive right.”
The campaign rolled out in October 2025 with eye-catching ads featuring local people. It reminds everyone of the law and the $88 fine. It’s part of CTDOT’s bigger effort to save lives through better driving.
Key Tips for Drivers:
- Stay right unless passing: Use right or middle lanes. Only go left to pass or for a left exit.
- Don’t pass on the right: It’s risky and leads to wrecks.
- No tailgating: If a slow driver is in the left lane, be patient and keep distance.
- Move for emergency vehicles: You might use left lane briefly under Move Over Law, but get back right when safe.
- Watch in work areas: Follow signs, slow down, and stay right.
The new law, Public Act No. 25-65, updates the rules for all multi-lane highways.
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