Identifying Lane Hoggers and Ways to Avoid Them

Following the Indonesian national team's triumph in the football event of the 2023 SEA Games, they are now preparing to compete in the FIFA Matchday 2023. Their upcoming match will be against the Argentine national team, who hold the title of 2022 World Cup champions and boast superstar Lionel Messi. This highly anticipated match promises to be intense and serves as a prestigious occasion for both teams.

 

The Indonesia vs. Argentina FIFA Matchday 2023 match is scheduled to take place on June 19, 2023, at Jakarta's Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium. Football enthusiasts are eager to witness this legendary showdown and fans from various regions will be flocking to Jakarta to attend. To reach the venue, transportation options include public transportation, motorcycles, or private cars.

 

Toll roads are typically favored by car users due to their obstruction-free routes, which ensure shorter travel times. However, there can be instances of lane hoggers on toll roads that can disrupt your journey. Lane hoggers will waste your time and increase the risk of accidents, so it is advisable to avoid them. Are you familiar with lane hoggers and how to steer clear of them? Read and review this article to the end for a more complete explanation!

 

 

What is a Lane Hogger?

Lane hoggers are commonly encountered on toll roads and highways. In driving terminology, a lane hogger refers to a car driver who maintains a constant speed in the right lane. As you may be aware, the right lane on the highway is designated for overtaking other vehicles, while the left lane is for slower-moving vehicles, and the middle lane is for vehicles traveling at a consistent speed.

 

Proper etiquette when attempting to overtake another vehicle involves signaling, moving into the right lane to pass at a higher speed, and then returning to the original lane. However, lane hoggers do not adhere to this practice. They persistently drive in the right lane at a static or slow speed, which can be dangerous and negatively impact other drivers on the road.

 

 

Hazards Posed by Lane Hoggers and Relevant Regulations

Lane hoggers pose a significant disruption to traffic flow and endanger other road users. They often cause traffic congestion and accidents. By driving at a static speed in the right lane, lane hoggers obstruct the passage of other vehicles. Other drivers cannot overtake or drive at high speed because in this lane there must be a safe distance between vehicles to anticipate unexpected events. Failure to do so can result in traffic jams and potentially fatal accidents, such as pile-up collisions.

 

Although lane hogging is a common occurrence, it is actually a violation of the law. According to Law No. 22 of 2009 on Road Traffic and Transportation, specifically Article 108, paragraph 2, the right lane should only be used by drivers who are overtaking the vehicle in front or as instructed by officers from the Indonesian National Police. In other words, the right lane is intended for high-speed driving by regular drivers.

 

Furthermore, regulations regarding lane hoggers are also outlined in Government Regulation No. 15 of 2005 on Toll Roads, specifically in Article 41, Paragraph 1, point b. According to these regulations, the right traffic lane is reserved for vehicles traveling faster than those in the left lane, in accordance with the established speed limits. Violating these rules can lead to sanctions as specified in Article 287, Paragraph 3. The penalties include a maximum prison sentence of one month and a maximum fine of IDR 250,000.

 

Read Also: Important to Avoid Accidents, What is the ‘3 Seconds on the Toll Roads Formula’?

 

 

Ways to Avoid Lane Hoggers

Encountering a lane hogger on a toll road can be unpredictable, but there are ways to avoid them while driving. Here are some strategies to steer clear of lane hoggers:

 

1. Maintain a safe distance

It is crucial to always keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the lane hogger. Ideally, the distance should be around 10 to 20 meters. You can also apply the 3-second rule, which involves maintaining a 3-second time gap between your car and the one in front. Additionally, it's important to control your speed effectively to prevent accidents that may arise from encounters with lane hoggers.

 

2. Signal or indicate

Lane hogging sometimes happens unintentionally if the driver is not fully focused. You can signal or indicate to the lane hogger, prompting them to change lanes. Flashing your headlights or honking your horn can draw their attention and make them aware of your presence, encouraging them to move to the middle or left lane.

 

3. Utilize the middle or left lane

If the lane hogger doesn't change lanes despite your signal, you can proceed to use the center or left lane. Carefully change lanes and overtake the lane hogger's vehicle. However, it is crucial to first assess the surrounding conditions using your rearview mirror. Only when it is safe to do so and there is a sufficient distance between vehicles should you attempt to pass the lane hogger. This approach helps mitigate the risk of traffic congestion or pile-up collisions caused by lane hoggers.

 

Read Also: Get to know the Multi Lane Free Flow System (MLFF), Pay Tolls Without Stopping

 

4. Maintain calmness and focus

When encountering lane hoggers, it's important to control your emotions and remain calm while driving. Lane hoggers are inconsiderate drivers, but getting agitated won't help the situation. By staying relaxed, you can preserve your concentration and minimize distractions. Remember that lane hoggers who disregard the rules pose a higher risk of accidents. You have to stay focused while driving to avoid unwanted incidents.

 

5. Avoid driving while fatigued

Driving for extended periods, particularly beyond 5 hours or on long journeys, can lead to fatigue, drowsiness, and a loss of focus. In such compromised physical conditions, encountering a lane hogger may trigger poor decision-making that compromises your safety. Driving while drowsy significantly increases the risk of accidents. You should rest first and not force yourself to drive. Usually on toll roads there are temporary resting facilities or rest areas. You can stretch, rest, or eat and drink to recharge before continuing your journey.

 

 

That concludes the information about lane hoggers and how to avoid them. The issue of lane hogging is commonly observed on toll roads. The right lane is often preferred by drivers due to its smoother flow and fewer distractions, making it a more comfortable lane to drive in. This preference might explain why some drivers become lane hoggers. It's important to note that lane hogging is not limited to inexperienced drivers but can stem from a different mindset altogether. Novice drivers tend to avoid the right lane out of caution, while lane hoggers consciously violate traffic rules, posing a risk to other drivers.

 

If you wish to avoid the hassle of driving in heavy traffic or congested roads, you may consider utilizing a car rental service with a driver. MPMRent offers services with skilled drivers who have extensive experience behind the wheel. With a fleet of 15,000 vehicles available for both personal and office use, MPMRent provides convenient options for your transportation needs. Renting a car can simplify your activities and allow you to explore various vehicle models. MPMRent prioritizes the maintenance and upkeep of their cars to ensure your comfort while driving. Monthly or yearly car rental made easy at MPMRent at the best prices. Please contact the nearest car rental service in your city.