Middle Lane Drivers: The Kings and Queens of the Motorway
Middle lane drivers are a common sight on Dutch motorways and a source of frustration for many drivers.
But there is more to this behaviour than just laziness or ignorance. Let’s take a closer look at the psychology, consequences, legal aspects, and possible solutions.
Why do people do this?
The answer lies in how our brain works. Our brain is designed for survival and makes unconscious decisions in traffic based on safety and efficiency. This often leads to middle lane driving for the following reasons:
🧠 Survival instinct – Changing lanes takes effort and involves risks. Your brain whispers: "Stay where you are, it's safer." Older drivers especially prefer to stay in one lane to avoid risks. Less manoeuvring, less stress.
🚗 Safety in the middle & routine behaviour – The middle lane provides more space to avoid unexpected obstacles. This makes drivers feel safer and more in control.
🚛 Road conditions – On some motorways, the right lane is poorly maintained, and heavy vehicles cause grooves in the road. This makes driving less comfortable, leading drivers to prefer the middle lane.
🏎️ Wrong perception of speed – People often think they move faster in the middle lane because it looks like the right lane is always full of slow cars and lorries. In reality, traffic flow worsens when too many drivers stay in the middle.
What are the consequences?
Middle lane driving may seem harmless, but it has several negative effects:
🚦 Slower traffic flow – When drivers avoid the right lane, unnecessary congestion builds up in the middle and left lanes. This causes traffic jams and frustration.
🚗 Dangerous overtaking – Drivers who want to pass middle lane users are forced into the left lane. This creates more lane changes and increases accident risks.
⚡Aggressive driving – Middle lane drivers cause others to tailgate or dangerously overtake on the right, both of which are risky.
👀 Less focus on the road – Other drivers get annoyed by middle lane users and focus on them instead of the traffic. This distraction can lead to dangerous situations.
What does the law say?
In the Netherlands, the rule "keep right as much as possible" is part of the Traffic Rules and Signs Regulations (RVV 1990), Article 3. It states that drivers must keep right unless overtaking or in heavy traffic.
❌ Fine for middle lane driving – Officially, middle lane driving can be fined around €220 if the police see it as ‘unnecessary left driving’. In practice, this is rarely enforced as it is difficult to monitor.
How do we solve this problem?
Besides raising awareness and enforcing rules, smart solutions can help:
📢 More traffic signs and messages – Simple signs on motorway screens reminding drivers to “keep right” can increase awareness.
📊 Dynamic lane signals – In countries like Germany and the UK, electronic signs are used to actively direct traffic to the right lane.
🎙️ Smart car warnings – Modern cars can warn drivers if they stay too long in the middle lane, similar to existing lane-keeping and speed alert systems.
🚔 Targeted enforcement – More police checks or traffic cameras could help stop this behaviour.
How do we change this habit?
🚦 More awareness – Many people do not realise they are driving incorrectly.
💡 Warnings in cars or on signs – A simple message: "Find the right lane, it misses you."|
📢 Fines for middle lane users – A ‘middle lane fine’ could solve the issue quickly!
Conclusion: Awareness is key
Middle lane driving is a mix of habit, psychology, and road conditions. Although it is against the law, it is often overlooked and remains a common issue. Our brain chooses comfort and control without considering the consequences.
Do you want to help make motorways smoother and safer? Follow the basic rule: Keep right whenever possible! 🚗💨
