Most Georgia drivers know they can be ticketed for speeding. What surprises many people is that you can also be pulled over for driving too slowly — even if you are technically obeying the speed limit. Georgia’s so-called “Slow Poke” law has become one of the more commonly enforced traffic laws on major highways throughout the state, especially around metro Atlanta. Drivers traveling in the left lane who fail to move over for faster traffic may face citations, fines, and points on their license.

What Is Georgia’s Slow Poke Law?

Georgia’s “Slow Poke” law is found in O.C.G.A. § 40-6-184. The statute prohibits drivers from impeding the normal flow of traffic by driving too slowly. The law also specifically addresses drivers lingering in the left-hand passing lane. Under Georgia law, a driver on a road with two or more lanes moving in the same direction must move out of the left lane when a faster vehicle approaches from behind. This applies even if the driver in the left lane is already traveling at or above the posted speed limit.

In other words, the left lane is considered a passing lane — not a cruising lane.

Why Was the Law Passed?

Georgia lawmakers passed the law in an effort to reduce traffic congestion, aggressive driving, and accidents caused by drivers blocking faster-moving traffic.

Law enforcement agencies, particularly the Georgia State Patrol, actively enforce the law on major highways such as:

• I-75
• I-85
• I-285
• Georgia 400

The law is designed to improve traffic flow and reduce dangerous lane weaving caused by frustrated drivers attempting to pass on the right.

Can You Be Ticketed Even If You Are Driving the Speed Limit?

Yes.

This is the part of the law many drivers find confusing. Georgia’s statute does not provide an exception simply because a driver is traveling at the posted speed limit. If faster traffic is approaching from behind in the left lane, the slower driver is generally expected to move over when it is safe to do so. That means a driver could theoretically receive a citation for impeding traffic while another driver behind them is simultaneously violating the speed limit.

Are There Exceptions to the Law?

Yes. Georgia law recognizes several situations where remaining in the left lane may be justified. These include:

• Heavy traffic congestion
• Hazardous weather conditions
• Road obstructions or construction
• Preparing for a left turn or left exit
• Compliance with traffic control devices
• Emergency vehicle operations
• Highway maintenance operations

If one of these conditions applies, a driver may have a valid defense to a citation.

What Are the Penalties?

A violation of Georgia’s Slow Poke law is a misdemeanor traffic offense. Potential consequences may include:

• Fines
• Court costs
• Points added to your driving record
• Increased insurance premiums

In some situations, traffic violations can also impact commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) or employment-related driving privileges.

Can You Fight a Slow Poke Ticket?

Absolutely.

Like many traffic offenses, these citations are often subjective and may depend heavily on the officer’s observations. There may be defenses available depending on the circumstances, including:

• Traffic conditions made it unsafe to merge
• The driver was actively passing another vehicle
• Congestion prevented movement into the right lane
• The officer lacked a clear view of traffic conditions
• The citation was issued improperly

An experienced Georgia traffic defense attorney can review the stop, examine dashcam footage if available, and determine whether the citation can be reduced or dismissed.

Why You Should Take Traffic Citations Seriously

Many drivers treat traffic tickets as minor inconveniences. However, even relatively small violations can carry long-term consequences, particularly for drivers with prior traffic offenses or commercial licenses. Accumulating points on your Georgia driving record can lead to license suspension issues, insurance increases, and additional penalties down the road. The Slow Poke law is a 3 point offense, and if you receive 15 points within a 24 month period, your license will be suspended.

If you have been cited under Georgia’s Slow Poke law or another traffic offense, speaking with an attorney may help protect your record and reduce the impact of the citation.

Charged With Impeding Traffic in Georgia?

If you received a citation for impeding traffic flow or violating Georgia’s Slow Poke law, it is important to understand your options before simply paying the ticket. Paying a citation is treated as an admission of guilt and will result in points being added to your license. An experienced Georgia criminal defense and traffic attorney can help evaluate your case and fight for the best possible outcome. Call the attorneys at W. Scott Smith PC today for a FREE CONSULTATION at 404-581-0999.