Aka – Trucks Shouldn’t Be Seen in the Right (Fast) Lane in NZ too!
Let’s face it—seeing a lumbering 18-wheeler hogging the fast lane is as shocking as finding a goat riding a bicycle. In New Zealand and most sensible places, heavy trucks should treat the right-hand lane like a swan at a dog park: with utmost avoidance. Why? Well, let’s break it down.
The Law: Trucks, Stay Left Unless Overtaking
New Zealand’s rulebook is crystal clear: trucks (vehicles over 7.5 tonnes) are not permitted in the right-hand lane of a motorway. The only exceptions? Overtaking, or descending a hill when it’s safe to do so. Otherwise, trucks must keep left—no matter how tempting that open tarmac might look. Once a truck completes its overtake (preferably not while racing anyone), it should retreat immediately to the left-hand lane, making the motorway a happier, less congested place for all.
Safety First: The Physics of Big Rigs
A giant truck in the right lane isn’t just disconcerting—it’s dangerous. These behemoths have considerable blind spots, especially on the left, turning simple lane changes into high-stakes games of “Guess Who’s There?” Other drivers should avoid lingering around a truck’s sides, but it’s much easier when trucks aren’t blocking the overtaking lane in the first place.
The Fast Lane Is for Passing, Not Posing
Let’s be honest—the right lane (often called the “fast lane”) is designed for overtaking, not for cruising. The general rule: keep left unless passing, even if you’re Jeff Gordon reincarnated with a lead foot. Trucks, with their lower acceleration and longer stopping distances, simply can’t match the nimble ballet of passing cars. Keeping them in the left avoids clogging up traffic and keeps tempers (and horns) cool.
Real-Life Anecdotes: Kiwi Drivers Aren’t Amused
Take a scroll through Kiwi driver forums and you’ll find more rants about right-lane-hogging trucks than sheep in a paddock. Many call for stricter enforcement and penalties for trucks loitering in the right lane. The general consensus—let trucks overtake when absolutely necessary, then get them straight back to the left where they belong.
Keep Calm & Trucking keep Left!!!
Trucks are essential for the economy, but in the right (read: overtaking) lane? They’re just in the way. The rules are simple, the reasons are compelling, and the traffic flows smoother—so let’s all agree: trucks shouldn’t be seen in the right (fast) lane… unless they’re overtaking, and then, only briefly! If you see a truck cruising in the right lane without passing, feel free to shake your head (politely, of course)—it’s not just bad manners; it’s against the code.
