West Virginia Truck Lane Restrictions
West Virginia has no truck-only lane law. The keep-right rule covers every vehicle (W.Va. Code 17C-7-1). If you are slower than the traffic around you, get in the right lane except to pass or set up a left turn. Break it and it is a misdemeanor: up to $100 the first time, up to $200 the second within a year, and up to $500 after that. There is no statewide ban on trucks in the left lane.
Which lanes a truck can use in West Virginia
West Virginia has no truck-only lane law. The keep-right rule covers every vehicle (W.Va. Code 17C-7-1). If you are slower than the traffic around you, get in the right lane except to pass or set up a left turn. Break it and it is a misdemeanor: up to $100 the first time, up to $200 the second within a year, and up to $500 after that. There is no statewide ban on trucks in the left lane.
Roads, exceptions, and signs
- Where it applies: Statewide, all roadways.
- Statutory only. No statewide truck-lane signs.
- General rule: W.Va. Code 17C-7-1: slower-than-normal traffic keeps right except to pass or turn left.
- West Virginia's only truck-specific highway rule of note is a following-distance rule (17C-7-10, 200 feet for heavy trucks outside business/residence districts), not a lane restriction.
What a lane violation costs
Misdemeanor: up to $100 the first time, up to $200 on a second conviction within a year, and up to $500 after that.
West Virginia Truck Lane FAQ
Can a truck drive in the left lane in West Virginia?
Is there a truck lane restriction in West Virginia?
What is the fine for a lane violation in West Virginia?
Reference information for planning, not legal advice. Traffic laws change and this can be out of date, so always confirm the current statute and obey posted signs before you rely on it. Last reviewed July 2026. Source: https://code.wvlegislature.gov/17C-7-1/. See our Terms & Disclaimer.
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