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Can I use the merge lane to pass traffic in Florida?

Trooper Steve answers viewer questions

ORLANDO, Fla. – News 6 traffic safety expert Trooper Steve Montiero answers viewer questions and shares tips about the rules of the road, helping Central Florida residents become better drivers by being better educated.

News 6 viewer Robin on Tuesday asked, “Is it legal to leave your right travel lane and use the merge lane to pass traffic?”

Trooper Steve said he knew he’d get this question at some point because he witnesses it happening every day on Interstate 4.

“Drivers will approach slow or heavy traffic, and then move to the right side into a merge lane to pass traffic and then force their way back in,” he said. “This is illegal.”

The merge lane is not a passing lane!

“This lane is designated specifically for traffic attempting to enter your lanes of travel,” Trooper Steve said. “Passing on the right in a lane that is not yours would be considered improper passing. Believe it or not, you might think you’re making some progress but in reality, you are contributing to traffic congestion.”

So stop!

If you have a question for Trooper Steve, submit it here.

For more Ask Trooper Steve content, click or tap here.

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About the Authors
Steve Montiero headshot

Steven Montiero, better known as “Trooper Steve," joined the News 6 morning team as its Traffic Safety Expert in October 2017. A Central Florida native and decorated combat veteran, Montiero comes to the station following an eight-year assignment with the Florida Highway Patrol.

Daniel Dahm headshot

Daniel started with WKMG-TV in 2000 and became the digital content manager in 2009. When he's not working on ClickOrlando.com, Daniel likes to head to the beach or find a sporting event nearby.

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