What Is the Keep Right Rule on Ontario Highways?
On Ontario highways, drivers must stay in the right lane except when passing another vehicle. The left lane is reserved for passing only, and you can be fined for travelling unnecessarily in the left lane on a multi-lane highway.
Key Facts
- Left lane is a passing lane, not a travel lane
- Return to right lane promptly after completing a pass
- Slower traffic should always keep right
- Fines apply regardless of whether you are at the speed limit
In this article
The Keep Right Rule Explained
Ontario's Highway Traffic Act requires drivers on multi-lane highways to travel in the right-most lane unless they are passing another vehicle. Once you have completed your pass, you must return to the right lane. This rule applies to highways with two or more lanes travelling in the same direction.
Left Lane Camping Is Illegal
Driving continuously in the left lane without passing is known as left lane camping. In Ontario this is an offence. Officers can issue a fine for unnecessary use of lane 1 (the left lane) even if you are travelling at the posted speed limit. The rule is about lane position, not just speed.
- Left lane is a passing lane, not a travel lane
- Return to right lane promptly after completing a pass
- Slower traffic should always keep right
- Fines apply regardless of whether you are at the speed limit
Exceptions to the Rule
You may remain in the left lane when traffic congestion makes it impractical to move right, when you are preparing to turn left or exit from the left, or when a road authority has posted signs designating lane use differently. Highway on-ramp and off-ramp configurations may also require temporary left-lane travel.
Why the Rule Exists
Keeping right reduces rear-end collisions caused by speed differentials between vehicles. It allows faster-moving traffic to pass safely and reduces the temptation to pass on the right, which is more dangerous. Countries and jurisdictions with strong keep-right enforcement consistently see lower highway collision rates.
Tips for New Drivers on the Highway
Many G test candidates underestimate how important lane discipline is during their highway driving evaluation. Your examiner will watch for unnecessary left-lane travel. Practice staying right, checking mirrors before changing lanes, and returning promptly to the right lane after every pass. SafePass G road test preparation covers highway lane discipline in detail.
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