January 6, 2026 | Florida Law
Florida has many more large trucks and 18-wheelers on its highways than most other states. In fact, Florida consistently ranks highly in the country for the number of trucks registered in the state. This is largely due to the numerous ports located in Florida and the large number of trucks required to transport incoming goods nationwide.
Unfortunately, these large trucks pose a safety risk, and truck accidents often result in catastrophic injuries. To improve overall safety, Florida has implemented certain rules and restrictions that govern the operation of these vehicles.
One of these laws prohibits commercial trucks from driving in the left lane on certain highways in Florida. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, so keep reading below to learn more about driving a truck in the left lane in Florida.
Florida’s Left Lane Restrictions for Tractor Trailers
Florida has implemented truck lane restrictions designed to prevent commercial tractor-trailers from occupying the left lane. However, this rule does not apply to all Florida highways. Instead, it restricts trucks from using the left-most, or inside travel lane, on certain six-lane interstate highways.
Generally speaking, only certain sections of I-75, I-95, and I-4 are subject to these restrictions. Trucks may operate in the left lane of all state highways across Florida. Furthermore, they may operate in the left lane of an interstate highway, as long as they are outside the specific areas covered by the rule.
The sections of the interstate covered by the left lane restriction are mostly rural. To make things easier, Florida has created a map designed to show where these lane restrictions exist.
Do Left Lane Restrictions Exist for All Large Vehicles?
No, the left lane restrictions mentioned above do not apply to all large vehicles. The restrictions only apply to commercial tractor-trailers. The following types of vehicles are not subject to the left lane restrictions:
- Tour buses
- Charter buses
- RVs
- Other large vehicles
These types of large vehicles may pose many of the same dangers as tractor-trailers. Since these vehicles can use the left lane, drivers should be aware and always pay attention when driving near a large vehicle.
Penalties for Violating the Truck Lane Restrictions
If a truck driver chooses to ignore the left lane restrictions, they may face penalties for doing so, including:
- A minimum fine of $121
- Three points assessed against the driver’s CDL
While these penalties may not seem significant, subsequent violations can affect a driver. Additional points on a driver’s CDL license can cause their insurance rates to skyrocket, and it could even lead to a suspension of their license.
An accumulation of 12 points within a 12-month period can lead to a license suspension of at least 30 days. This is why truck drivers must take these restrictions seriously and avoid using the left lane in restricted areas.
Staying Safe on the Roadways in Florida
The primary reason Florida has implemented left lane restrictions for large trucks is safety. Keeping trucks out of the left lane helps prevent unnecessary weaving and maneuvers that could lead to accidents. Additionally, it helps the traffic flow smoothly by preventing trucks from riding side by side when they are unable to pass each other.
Contact Graves Thomas Injury Law Group Today to Schedule a Free Consultation With a Vero Beach Truck Accident Lawyer
If you do find yourself involved in a truck accident, know that you could be entitled to significant compensation for your injuries. An experienced Vero Beach truck accident lawyer can help you pursue a personal injury claim that includes both economic and non-economic damages.
Contact Graves Thomas Injury Law Group today to schedule a free consultation. We have three convenient locations in Florida, including Vero Beach, St. Petersburg, and Port St. Lucie.
Graves Thomas Injury Law Group – Vero Beach
2651 20th St
Vero Beach, FL 32960
(772) 758-5735
Graves Thomas Injury Law Group – Port St. Lucie
10805 SW Tradition Square Unit 024A
Port St. Lucie, FL 34987
(772) 617-8814
Graves Thomas Injury Law Group – St. Petersburg
200 Central Ave Suite 304
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
(772) 569-8155
