New NC Traffic Laws Effective Dec. 1:
Left Lanes, Window Tints, and Your Insurance

As a North Carolina driver, staying informed about changes in traffic law is crucial not only for safety but also for protecting your auto insurance rates. Effective December 1, 2023, two significant legislative changes—House Bill 40 (Left Lane Law) and House Bill 182 (Window Tint Regulations)—are set to impact how you drive and how your vehicle is equipped. At Bill Layne Insurance, with over 20 years of experience serving NC communities, we want to ensure you're fully prepared.

Understanding the Upcoming Changes

The North Carolina General Assembly recently passed several bills, two of which directly affect everyday drivers across the state. These updates reflect an ongoing effort to enhance road safety, improve traffic flow, and clarify existing regulations. Let's delve into what these new laws entail and, crucially, what they could mean for your insurance policy.

NC House Bill 40: The "Keep Right Except to Pass" Law

House Bill 40, commonly known as the "Keep Right Except to Pass" law, aims to curb the practice of drivers hogging the leftmost lane on multi-lane highways. While the concept isn't entirely new, this bill strengthens enforcement and clarifies expectations for drivers.

Key Provisions of HB 40:

• Drivers are prohibited from continuously operating a vehicle in the leftmost lane of a multi-lane highway unless they are actively passing another vehicle, turning left, or exiting on the left.
• The law applies to highways with at least two lanes of traffic moving in the same direction.
• Emergency vehicles and construction vehicles are exempt when performing official duties.

"The intention behind HB 40 is clear: reduce congestion and improve safety by ensuring that the passing lane is used as intended. This small change can have a big impact on driver frustration and accident rates."

Violations of this law could result in a traffic citation, leading to fines and, more importantly, points on your driving record.

NC House Bill 182: Clarifying Window Tint Regulations

House Bill 182 addresses window tinting, providing clarity on permissible Visible Light Transmission (VLT) levels and how they are measured. The goal is to ensure driver visibility for safety and to assist law enforcement.

What You Need to Know About HB 182:

• Front Side Windows: Must have a minimum of 35% VLT. This means at least 35% of visible light must pass through the window.
• Rear Side Windows and Rear Window: No specific VLT limit, but dual side mirrors are required if the rear window is tinted.
• Windshield: Tinting is only permitted on the top five inches of the windshield.
• Tint Meters: The bill clarifies the acceptable methods and devices for measuring VLT.

How These New Laws Could Affect Your Auto Insurance

This is where Bill Layne Insurance steps in to provide critical insights. Every traffic violation, regardless of how minor it seems, has the potential to impact your auto insurance premiums. Insurers use your driving record to assess your risk level.

• Driving Record Points: Violations of HB 40 (left lane) or HB 182 (window tint) can add points to your North Carolina driving record. Accumulating too many points can lead to increased premiums.
• Premium Surcharges: Insurance companies are permitted to apply surcharges to your policy for certain traffic violations. Even a single ticket could trigger an increase.
• Increased Risk Perception: Drivers with multiple violations are seen as higher risk, potentially limiting your access to the best rates or preferred insurance carriers.

Quiz: Test Your Knowledge of New NC Traffic Laws!

See how well you understand the changes before they take effect.

Staying Compliant and Protecting Your Insurance Rates

The best defense against rising insurance costs is a clean driving record. Here are a few tips to help you navigate these new laws:

• Educate Yourself: Review the full text of HB 40 and HB 182 if you have specific questions about their nuances.
• Practice Good Lane Discipline: On multi-lane highways, use the leftmost lane only for passing. Once you've safely passed, move back to the right.
• Check Your Tint: If you have aftermarket window tint, consider having it professionally checked to ensure it meets the 35% VLT requirement for front side windows.
• Drive Defensively: Always prioritize safe driving practices, regardless of new laws.

Partner with Bill Layne Insurance for Peace of Mind

Understanding these new laws is just one part of being a responsible driver. Ensuring you have the right insurance coverage is the other. At Bill Layne Insurance, we're not just about policies; we're about partnership. With 20+ years of experience, we help North Carolina drivers find comprehensive coverage that fits their needs and budget.

Don't let new traffic laws catch you off guard. If you have questions about how these changes might affect your specific policy or if you're looking for competitive rates and expert advice, contact us today. We're here to help you drive confidently and stay protected.