Raged for Driving at Limit on Far Right Lane of Freeway

Ltunaroll123 on 01/12/2014 - 23:00
Last edited 02/12/2014 - 20:21

Hi guys, I was raged at a few days ago driving on the M3 (Eastern Freeway in VIC) towards the city on a Saturday afternoon.

So here are the facts:

  1. I was driving at 100 km/hr (speed limit) for most of the journey, going to 105ish sporadically (as you do).
  2. I entered from Springvale Rd (the beginning of the M3, end of the tollroad - Eastlink). As I intended on going all the way into the city, I decided to go fast as I legally can, changing a few lanes occasionally to get ahead of cars going under 100km/hr.
  3. Mid-journeyish, I ended up on the far right lane. At this place and point in time, there was almost a straight line of cars across the 4 lanes going at 100km/hr. This was when a huge (compared to my relatively small Mazda 6) black BMW X5 rushed up behind me and driving REALLY close behind me. Obviously he wanted me to drive faster but I didnt want to go faster than 100 and I couldn't change lanes either because the cars to the left of me was going at the same speed I was.
  4. (Then came the funny/aggro bit.) He then high beamed me constantly, which had little effect as it was a sunny afternoon. Then he switched on his screen wipers. At the same time, driving really close to me. Initially I wanted to get out of his way, but with the lane to my left blocked and me unwilling to speed - I felt kinda sorry for him. But then I got really annoyed when he wouldn't take the hint that there was nothing I could do without SPEEDING.
  5. After about a few minutes of this. There was a gap in the second lane and he changed lanes to get through the blockade. According to my partner, he was gesturing angrily and abusively across 2 lanes at my car - which I didn't see as I was concentrating on the road.
  6. He then sped off like a demon and cutting/zigzagging across many lanes and disappeared from sight within 20 seconds.

So here's my moral and ethical issue. I got home thinking that I did something wrong. But I was obeying the law wasn't I? I wasn't endangering anyone by going slow. I was driving at the limit and at the speed the sheer majority people were driving at. But why I do I feel bad about myself?

My trawls through the internet suggested that with few small adjustments, I was in the wrong. That I was in the 'wrong' lane. But this was a 4 lane freeway and I was not going under the limit. Anyone overtaking me would be against the law.

Hypothetically, if I sped up to accommodate this guy, and subsequently got caught, I doubt the police would be understanding in that I was only trying to help 'make way' for this guy. Back in the years, my driving instructor always taught me that if there was someone behind you trying to get you to drive faster than the limit, you should ignore him as it is not worth it to break the law.

So, because I was unable to find an exact post emulating my experience, I have turned to the Ozbargain community for guidance and to be judged as to whether I was in the wrong or was I in the right.

Also a poll below: Is it ok to ONLY travel at speed limit on a Saturday in the far right lane?

**I deliberately stated Saturday because the far right lane is a transit lane during peak periods during the week.

***Since everyone has been under the assumption I have been 'cruising' on the far right lane. Let me put it down to you guys straight. I was NOT cruising on the far right but only got there because I had wanted to overtake the car on the 3rd lane (maybe I didn't make it clear enough above). Then the black X5 showed up.

FINAL UPDATE (because thread has been closed):
Hi everyone, I just got back home from work and didn't expect my topic to be so divisive and the thread closed.
I want to thank everyone for their responses, including those that supported me, were against me or stayed neutral.
From reading the posts below, I conclude I am a relatively inexperienced driver. I had not come across such a situation until now. The thought of indicating left and slowing down did not seem like an option to me - given the car behind me was so close and the driver angry. I now know that is an option if I was ore confident in my driving.
Thank you for those that shared their similar experiences. I am glad I am not the only one who has found themselves in this predicament.
For the record, I was not trying to 'police' anyone, in fact this the first time I've even heard this phrase. I was not intending on keeping the car behind me slow but did so because I did not want to go faster.
In reply to people as to why I was in the far right lane: I was in there because I had wanted to overtake the car on the 3rd lane (at the time was under 100). When I got parallel to that car, it had sped up and matched my speed. At this moment, the black X5 showed up. By the time, the X5's intention was made, I was surrounded with the only option (perceived) was to speed.
I admit I was in the wrong in that I overstayed in the far right lane, it was not my intention to stay that long, it was only because I was surrounded by 3 cars in my immediate vinicity (1 behind, 1 left and 1 diagonally left behind) and unwilling to speed (my front was clear).
I have learned my lesson and I thank everyone for their contributions.

Poll Options

  • 194
    Yes, it is ok.
  • 3
    No, it is not ok. You should have driven faster than the limit.
  • 177
    No, it is not ok. You should have driven faster to accommodate the car behind you.
Automotive

closed Comments

        • Ramrunner on 02/12/2014 - 13:37
          +3

          rokoz, again read the original post. He was in that lane for quite a few minutes doing the same speed as the car to the left. He was not turning right at any stage. That is NOT overtaking thus being in the right lane is also illegal. See my post further up for all the references you'll ever need.

          What is it with you guys worrying about other people speeding, then justifying your actions because of other people's actions? If the other driver jumped off a cliff……..

          How about YOU do the right thing on the road and let others worry about THEIR driving?

          Jeez.

  • Cheeper on 02/12/2014 - 10:12
    -4

    If you are in the right lane doing the speed limit but only slowly overtaking another car then ignore any drugged up retard tailgating that wants to exceed the limit.

    I get these simple little toe rags tailgating all the time. just like the op they come rushing up and sit a foot off your bumper. They are usually kids or strangely enough, cranky tradies!

    A lot of "KIDS" think they have the god given right to exceed the speed limit for some reason?
    You see them on forums crying like hell because they got fined and always, that is not right because the little sooks are so used to getting away with everything.

    Ignore them, they will meet their waterloo and learn the hard way. When they self cull themselves they are protecting us from their offspring becoming road hazards also.

    • jackary on 02/12/2014 - 15:22
      +4

      Something tells me the X5 didn't have a set of P plates on it. Maybe you should vent your (ENTIRELY misdirected, and just as incorrect) opinions elsewhere.

  • onlyletters on 02/12/2014 - 10:14
    +6
    1. Your poll answers are stupid.
    2. You shouldn't be in the right hand lane if you are not overtaking. If I remember correctly, the law states if the speed limit is over 80km/h, the right hand lane must only be used for overtaking.
    3. You really need to consider other peoples circumstances, he might have something going on in his life like a dying family member.
    • Cheeper on 02/12/2014 - 10:20
      -2

      I agree with the poll q's being stupid but sometimes overtaking can be a slow process it you are only doing a couple of k's more than the other car. This is when the speeders get impatient and expect you to exceed the speed limit to get out of their way.

      • onlyletters on 02/12/2014 - 11:00
        +5

        He didn't want to increase his speed, meaning he didn't want to overtake.

    • rokoz on 02/12/2014 - 11:27
      -2

      100% true, overtaking only. The OP said they were changing lanes to overtake cars travelling <100km/h. The law also states drivers can't exceed the speed limit, which the tailgater was attempting to intimidate them into doing.

      So what about the 99% of drivers that tailgate and don't have dying family members? Where's their consideration for other road users? Should anybody driving aggressively be bowed down to out of suspicion?

      • onlyletters on 02/12/2014 - 12:18
        +6

        considering the cars to his left were doing the speed limit, then there is no need to overtake so he shouldn't be there in the first place..

  • Cheeper on 02/12/2014 - 10:18
    -1

    Re the poll… Supid and infantile.

    You can't exceed the speed limit at any time for any reason, even to let some drugged up retard overtake you.
    100% no excuse ever, that's the law.

    If you have a drivers licence you will know that.

    Any driver with a single ounce of intelligence never tailgates, only the retards do it.

    • pyramid on 02/12/2014 - 10:32
      +5

      Yeah, all emergency crew, all people who are rushing to hospitals etc are retards and crap..Please submit your license to your state and retired from driving.

  • bl1027 on 02/12/2014 - 10:28
    +4

    This reminds me of a situation on the F3 Freeway (Sydney to Newcastle) where a P-plater was driving 90km/h in far right lane. Yes, he was technically right in doing his capped speed but everyone else was travelling at the normal limit of 110km/h and so he was inadvertently causing a dangerous situation because all the cars coming up behind him had to slow significantly to avoid ramming into him. Not only that, but then those couldn’t merge into the left lane because the cars in that lane were travelling at least 100-110km/h.

    Sometimes it is not about being technically right or wrong, it is about being aware of the cars around you to avoid potentially unsafe situations.

    Keep left unless overtaking.

  • pyramid on 02/12/2014 - 10:36
    +2

    OP, your poll is crap. Option 2 and 3 are dumb options. Whats difference between this two?

    No, it is not ok. You should have driven faster than the limit.
    No, it is not ok. You should have driven faster to accommodate the car behind you.

    • baxter on 02/12/2014 - 10:48
      +6

      How about the following poll option:

      "No, I was in the lane for an extended time and shouldn't have been there in the first place, and even if I ended up there I shoud have moved - a gap would have opened up within 30 seconds one way or the other."

      Your poll only looks so positive because you didn't give a decent option for those who believe (know) you're in the wrong.

      • pyramid on 02/12/2014 - 11:02

        Now looks good..

  • timohill on 02/12/2014 - 10:36
    +4

    You're in the wrong, stay out of the right lane (80km/h or more) unless overtaking. If there is no one behind you than go for the long overtake. If anyone or DH's come up behind you at pace move over and let them through. Don't slow down. Don't be a dick. Just let them through.

  • apu on 02/12/2014 - 10:41
    +6

    OP - Your poll options are rubbish. Where is - Should I move over as soon as I saw someone tailgating me? Even if it means slowing down slightly to move over.

    I hate people who hog the right lane on the Eastern Fwy.

  • Weezle on 02/12/2014 - 11:04
    +1

    I don't think that you've done anything wrong going by what you have told us. However, may I ask why you were in the overtaking lane to start with? The right lane is strictly for overtaking, so if the cars in the left hand lanes are doing 100 km/h, then there shouldn't be a reason to sit in the right lane.

    That's not to say that that the driver of the black vehicle's behaviour is acceptable. It definitely isn't. I believe you put yourself into a bad position by sitting in the overtaking lane without actually overtaking, but there is no place for road rage on our roads. It should be dealt with in the extreme by police. You should've taken note of his number plate.

    Don't beat yourself up about it.

  • lplau on 02/12/2014 - 11:06
    +4

    You forgot the Poll option of "No it is not OK, You should have slowed down and got out of the right lane and let people go drive faster and risk their lives".

    You could always justify yourself by telling yourself "you possibly saved the person's life by getting in their way and making them drive slower than what they could have done".

  • JimmyF on 02/12/2014 - 11:21
    +3

    Have you checked your speedo to a GPS? Most Mazdas I've ever driven have grossly over reported the speed!!

    ie 100kmh on the speedo = 93kmh by a GPS and over head speedo checks.

    IF this was the case, then to the driver behind him, he would have been going slow in the 'fast' lane.

  • woz on 02/12/2014 - 11:23
    +1

    A very large range of very good posts here. RandomNinja has the right of it - indicate, slow and merge left in your own sweet time. And I agree that the poll options are somewhat lacking.

    I would add though that while the majority of the posters agree that the OP was in the wrong, credit goes to the OP for posting about the issue seeking a better understanding of his options.

    Using the indicator and slowing down also has a couple of extra benefits:

    1. It immediately tells the rage driver you understand what his problem is.
    2. Slowing down (rather than speeding up) to accommodate him will deservedly piss him off even more.

    I am admittedly an absolute bastard of a driver. When faced with a rage driver, I retaliate. I brake test tailgaters. Once a tailgater passes me, I match their speed and place myself in their blind spot for kilometres (so they can't brake test me). Or, I try to predict which exit they are looking for, and then block them from making the exit.

    • RockyRaccoon on 02/12/2014 - 18:43

      Using the indicator and slowing down also has a couple of extra benefits:

      1. It immediately tells the rage driver you understand what his problem is.
      2. Slowing down (rather than speeding up) to accommodate him will deservedly piss him off even more

      I agree except in the OP's case they didn't move over when they had a chance, so the other car passed on their left - and at a speed that the OP would have to claim was faster than their perception of the actual speed limit, so they never slowed the BMW down.

      As for your tactics after the car passes, I really think you need counselling. If the other driver is an idiot, why compound the problem. Really they are not going to change their stupid actions, and if they are a rageable person, all you do it increase their rage.

      While you are a big boy and if you and your rager have an accident, then that's your problem, BUT in reality its more than likely someone else who isn't part of your game that gets involved. Just remember if you survive the game, you may have to face the fact you caused an accident for someone else.

  • Tafe on 02/12/2014 - 11:30
    +3

    My guess is lanes 1-3 were going at let's say 98kmh. You wanted to travel at 100kmh so you moved into the 4th lane. Faster than 98kmh but not fast enough to effectively overtake in a timely manner. Lesson? If you're not willing to 'assertively negotiate' between lanes to avoid disrupting the flow of traffic then you need to suck it up and get comfortable at sitting just below the maximum speed behind other cars in the non-overtaking lanes.

  • Bendo on 02/12/2014 - 11:34
    +4

    I've had this happen to me.
    Two lanes. I'm in the left coming up to a car doing approx 90kmh in 100 zone.
    I go to right and start to overtake.
    Car in left lane speeds up!
    Now we're both doing 100kmh
    Another car comes up very fast behind me.
    Must have been doing 120 until slowing to 100 behind me.
    I've got wife and young kids in the car.
    I'm NOT going over 100 due to safety and police patrols.
    Guy behind me starts going nuts with horn and flashing lights about 6 inches behind me.
    I can't go slower, I can't get into left lane. I'm not going to go faster.
    So stuff him! I sat at the limit for as long as it took to "overtake" the guy to the left of me.
    Then moved over. Took a minute or two.
    So What.
    The guy had to wait for a minute or two out of his precious life.
    I wasn't going to endanger mine or my family's life.
    Good on you for sitting in the overtaking lane until able to move over.
    It's not like you were there for hours hogging the lane.
    You used it and if it takes a bit of extra time to get into the left, which I believe is your intention, then so what.

    • Tafe on 02/12/2014 - 11:37
      +7

      I'm sorry, but why can you not go slower? No one is asking you to slam on the brakes. Ease off the accelerator until room appears on your left then merge. You will hold up the person behind you for an extra few seconds then you will be out of the way. Assertive driving doesn't have to mean speeding up.

      Edit: of=off

      • Bendo on 02/12/2014 - 12:16
        -2

        I understand what you are saying, however I was not doing anything wrong.
        In fact I was the only one doing the right thing.
        The guy on the left sped up. He should no have.
        The guy behind was breaking the law. Speeding. Flashing lights. Using horn. Not to mention intimidation etc.
        (lucky I'm a seasoned highway driver. Not a fragile driver who may have done something silly…)

        If I eased off, then perhaps the guy behind doesn't get it in time and I have a hit in the rear. Doing 100kmh with a full car and depending on how it hits, slowly possibly, but still dangerous.
        No way am I going to alter my speed.

        I stand by what I said.
        The guy behind was a jerk. He put my family in danger.
        If he pulled over I would have let him have a bunch of fives. Repeatedly.

    • astroe on 02/12/2014 - 14:42
      -1

      The irony is you endanger you and your family's lives if the guy pulls out a gun or something.

  • IIGnomeII on 02/12/2014 - 11:43
    +2

    I think the view is pretty consistent on this.

    The right lane is for overtaking only.
    As you were in the process of overtaking but not willing to break the speed limit to overtake the cars on the left then you should have indicated that you were merging back into the left hand lane and done so when safe.

    The guy behind you will be the one wrapped around a light pole one day so I wouldn't worry about him but as a form of courtesy if you are not willing to break the limit to allow others in the overtaking lane to move up then you should merge back into the left lane.

  • [Deactivated] on 02/12/2014 - 11:56
    +1

    OP you were committing an offense by occupying the right lane when not overtaking or being in congested traffic. The other drivers' offenses or potential offenses don't excuse your offense. I suggest you hand yourself in to your closest Police Station

  • AnDyStYLe on 02/12/2014 - 12:03
    +2

    Where's the option "Keep left unless overtaking"? You poll is biased.

    Get out of the right lane, simple road etiquette.

    People like you that sit in the right lane sht all of us up the wall. Why can't you sit at your 100km/h in the other lanes and leave the far right open for people that understand road etiquette.

  • miscbrah on 02/12/2014 - 12:08
    +1

    the right lane might be for over taking but when you're in a situation like that, you've lost my courtesy when you start acting like a tosser by tailgating.

    i'm not going to be courteous to an asshole, he/she can wait

  • Dr Techno on 02/12/2014 - 12:08
    +2

    It will only get worse in the future.. Too many crazy ppl on the roads these days.

    • frinik on 02/12/2014 - 13:01
      +1

      It will get better…cars will eventually drive themselves and we'll just be there for the ride.

      • Dr Techno on 02/12/2014 - 13:44

        I think it will take sometime for ppl to get over the trust issue with driverless cars. :-/

  • skyva on 02/12/2014 - 12:12

    Lets face it, you were driving slow in the right hand lane, but too clueless to understand it. It is likely that you will end up in hell with child molesters and hipsters.

    I would stay off the freeway, or at least put a bowling hat in the rear window shelf of your car, as this is the internationally recognised signal of a slow inconsiderate driver. Then the ragers know there is no point harassing you, and to undertake you in the left hand lane before cutting you off.

  • JimB on 02/12/2014 - 12:15
    +1

    The X5 driver may have been an asshole, but you were in the wrong.

    Drivers like you annoy me. You shouldn't be sitting there at 100, and if a driver is coming behind you, speed up and overtake the car on the right, that's what the far right lane is for.

    Be considerate to others and drive reasonably.

    Also, your 100k on your speedo is most likely out by 5% or more (slower than actual)

  • [Deactivated] on 02/12/2014 - 12:32
    +3

    Based on the replies I have seen. I have 3 genuine questions that would influence my behaviour on the road. My first priority is to not run afoul of the law. I am still considered a "new" driver so I would like some more experienced ozbargainers to share their advice.

    Question 1

    What is the speed limit of the right-most lane?

    Question 2

    Is it legal to overtake by travelling over the speed limit?

    Quesion 3

    What would a cop say to your answers?

    • Cheapo333 on 02/12/2014 - 13:42
      +5

      1. The speed limit on the right-most lane is the same posted speed limit applied to all lanes - In this case was 100km/h.

      2. No, you are breaking the law and subject to heavy penalties for travelling over the speed limit.

      3. How did you get your drivers licence without knowing these basic driving rules?

      • [Deactivated] on 02/12/2014 - 14:24

        I knew all these already. I would have given your post a + but there was no need to get personal really =).
        I would also agree with the people who say slow down and give way. However, I am asking these questions based on this sequence of events and the responses of ozbargainers in its context.

        OP travelling at 100kmph - OK

        OP trying to overtake vehicle in 3rd lane at 100kmph - OK

        X5 shows up behind the OP - Now OP is wrong to be sitting in the right lane.

        I know the road rules but I want to be as considerate as possible too.

        My question I guess is, "If you want to obey the law and be considerate is to never use the overtaking lane?" or "If you want to use the overtaking lane, be prepared to go over the speed limit?"

        Just exploring the ethical considerations here. So lets rule out life threatening and emergency situations.

        • Cheapo333 on 02/12/2014 - 14:59
          +1

          Haha, I didn't intend it to be a personal attack, but just a soft way of creating some humour for a bit of a laugh.

          You are entitled to use the overtaking lane for overtaking or when the road is congested.
          Still not sure what you are asking. It depends on the circumstances.

          Obviously, try not breaking any road rules or putting anyone in danger in the process.

        • [Deactivated] on 02/12/2014 - 16:13

          @Cheapo333: I guess if I viewed the "you" as rhetorical, would make sense. I Got bit defensive there.

          I was, asking in reference to the OP's situation and people responding that OP should not have used the overtaking lane, or how the OP was wrong for staying in the lane despite the speeds of surrounding traffic.

          I am also wondering what is all this judgement on overtaking lane usage based on and how these factors are prioritized.

          Which comes first? Safety? Law? Manners? Fair right to use roads?

        • Ughhh on 02/12/2014 - 16:57

          "If you want to obey the law and be considerate is to never use the overtaking lane?" or "If you want to use the overtaking lane, be prepared to go over the speed limit?"

          There are a number of things you should consider before overtaking (but not limited to):
          1. Your current speed and the max you're willing to speed

          1. The other vehicles current speed, consider how long it would take you to overtake at your current speed and what speed you would need to drive at to overtake quickly without hogging the lane. If they're going 98km/ph and your max speed is 100km/hh, its probably not worth going into the right lane if there's lots of cars. As you're only going 2km/hr faster, it will probably take you a while to overtake.

          2. Any other cars coming up from behind on the right lane. If you see one moving quite fast (faster than what you're willing to go), wait till they have past then overtake.

          3. Whats the space between the car you're overtaking and the car infront of them, is there a gap for you ? Are you planning on overtaking multiple cars? How long would it take you at your speed?

          4. Is it worth overtaking? Obviously overtaking a bus going 80km/hr in a 100 zone is worth it, but a car going 98km/hr?

  • wackedupwacko on 02/12/2014 - 12:34
    +2

    Whilst I know that some situations are weird and when you go to the right to overtake but everyone else suddenly speeds up and you get stuck, typically people are nice enough if you indicate to turn back in slightly behind a car.

    The only time I have cruised on the right is when I went to overtake on the right and saw (with clear field of vision) a copper driving 2 cars ahead. Had an idiot try to tail me, eventually got past and BAM 100m up the road he was pulled over.

  • rompastompa on 02/12/2014 - 12:36
    +5

    You should always treat the far right lane as the emergency lane. As you said, the X5 came up quick. Would you have noticed an emergency vehicle in the same amount of time? Emergency vehicles usually appear out of no where, and are slowed down by many people trying to merge together.

    As everyone has stated above. The guy in the X5 was likely a douchebag, but we don't know his side of the story. Situation could have easily been avoided by getting over ASAP. It's a learning experience, you'll be a wiser driver after this situation.

    • Davo1111 on 02/12/2014 - 12:44
      +9

      The guy in the X5 was likely a douchebag,

      likely? he has an x5!

  • ronnknee on 02/12/2014 - 12:50
    +6

    You keep emphasising how you can't switch lanes because the car on your left is going at the same speed, and you didn't want to speed up. How come it never occurred to you to slow down and slip in behind the car on the left?

    • [Deactivated] on 02/12/2014 - 13:58

      Slow down with someone inches behind you, acting like a lunatic?

      • Cheapo333 on 02/12/2014 - 15:26
        +3

        Gently easing off the throttle and sliding across to the left to allow the tailgater to pass is the safest course of action.

        • ronnknee on 02/12/2014 - 18:13

          This. The hoon would realise that he's getting too close and he would slow down too. If he had hit the back of OP's car, he would become liable. It is the responsibility of every drive to keep a safe distance ahead of them.

        • [Deactivated] on 02/12/2014 - 18:19
          +2

          @ronnknee: Based on the responses here the general (delusional) consensus goes like this:

          "hey he is slowing down and trying to police my speed! £&#+#+#"

          When are are dealing with such a stupid short fused mindset there is no easy way of avoiding a conflict of some sort.

      • jackary on 02/12/2014 - 15:27

        Yes

  • Cheapo333 on 02/12/2014 - 12:50
    +2

    Keep left unless overtaking.

    You say you didn't want to speed up over the limit to get out of the right lane due to cars on your left, but did it ever occur to you to slow down slightly to change lanes as well?

    Did you know if you activate your left indicator lights, cars on your left will understand your intentions and space will eventually be available for you to change lanes.

    The road is a shared public space, so you should be courteous to others.
    This is a common deluded view of righteousness many road users have however in reality, you are just being a road hog by cruising on the right.

    The fact is you cruised on the right lane and didn't comply with the 'keep left unless overtaking' rule.

    • [Deactivated] on 02/12/2014 - 13:54
      -2

      How about "Do not exceed the speed limit"? You want to just abide by one rule selectively? You cannot have it both ways.

      I am tailgated all the time in the left lane so get off the high horse. The only delusional thing is that the tailgaiter believes that the person is purposely out to police them.

      • Cheapo333 on 02/12/2014 - 14:22
        +2

        What are you on about? I never suggested speeding.
        I suggested to slow down to change lanes.

        What's the fact of you being tailgated on the left lane got to do with me and my horse?

        I don't even own a horse.

        Who's the delusional one now?

      • DeadlySaber on 02/12/2014 - 17:31
        +1

        @wasabinator
        Cheapo is showing a perfectly right way to deal in Op's situation by activating left indicator showing his intention to the X5 driver, also to those people in the left lane to give the OP a safe gap to merge, that's a very good road etiquette. I don't understand why you're going on about other issues.

        Also, by saying " I am tailgated all the time" give me something to think, I don't believe a normal, reasonable driver who go with the flow of traffic on the left lane is being tailgated all the time.

  • whoopdeedoo on 02/12/2014 - 12:56
    -6

    i'm guessing you're female? well you drive like one.
    no offence.

    • Cheapo333 on 02/12/2014 - 13:49

      moderator should censor this sexist comment.

    • joffmc on 02/12/2014 - 14:03
      +2

      Dumb comment is dumb

      • whoopdeedoo on 02/12/2014 - 15:07
        -1

        dont feed the trolls.

  • rompastompa on 02/12/2014 - 13:06
    +3

    Hmm.. I've just noticed the username..
    tunaroll123 - una = troll123

    Coincidence?

  • Ughhh on 02/12/2014 - 13:16
    +1

    Btw op, if you go at the same speed as the cars on your left, next to them, there will never be a safe opportunity to change lanes. You were basically sitting at 100 with them, hoping they would slow down for you, that's not how overtaking lanes work.

    • [Deactivated] on 02/12/2014 - 13:53
      +1

      That's right, and the speed limit is 100. So then, NEITHER the OP NOR Mr X5 should have been in the overtaking lane!

  • randomhero24 on 02/12/2014 - 13:18
    +1

    OP, move the hell over you twat.

    The right lane is for people running late, it's their right to speed if they want to. Their not asking you to pay their fines if the get them.

    Just shut up, and MOVE.

    • miscbrah on 02/12/2014 - 13:23

      why is it their right to break the law by speeding but not OPs right to break the law by driving in the right lane?

      • shadowfangz on 02/12/2014 - 13:27
        +5

        You just answered your own question, the OP is asking if he was in the wrong. The BMW and OP were both in the wrong, for the OP to be right he'd have to move a lane over and free up the right.

      • TheBird on 02/12/2014 - 15:13

        It's a free country. It's your right to make decisions, regardless of whether they are poor or not. Whether they have the right to perform that action is another matter all together.

        Two wrongs don't make a right seems to apply in this situation.

  • tonyjzx on 02/12/2014 - 13:28
    +2

    OP is whats wrong with society

    stay in the left lane with all the other slow people

    • miscbrah on 02/12/2014 - 14:07
      +2

      can't help but just LOL at these kinds of responses.

      OP is literally being condemned to hell and compared to child molesters for driving in the right handed lane while taking such a blasé attitude to speeding and tailgating.

      can't help but think these are the same people i CONSTANTLY see on the M1 texting/on the phone

      i can see it's just one of those things that there is no point in trying to argue tho so i'll just sit back and enjoy the sh*tstorm

      • tonyjzx on 02/12/2014 - 18:12
        +1

        OP at least feels bad for what he did

        he or she should feel bad

        i dont agree with texting and whatever but you're bringing in something else that has nothing to do with the situation

        hell i dont even text when i'm sitting in the office because texting is largely for morons

  • [Deactivated] on 02/12/2014 - 13:42
    +1

    I had the exact same thing happen to me in the FAR LEFT lane. I have lived in different states (currently VIC). Victorians are far and away the biggest bunch of tailgating idiots. As usual everyone sides with the raging tailgater as if it was a major crime to impede their flow momentarily (against the OPs will to note -they didn't want to be stuck in that lane).

    People - you are not an ambulance on a life and death mission. If you grow enraged because someone is in front of yourself momentarily, take a deep breath and if that doesn't work the seek help before you kill yourself or, worse, someone else.

    • pyramid on 02/12/2014 - 13:52
      +2

      Ridiculous comment. Specially this part

      Victorians are far and away the biggest bunch of tailgating idiots

      • [Deactivated] on 02/12/2014 - 13:59

        Let me guess: Born and bred Victorian?

        I know this from evidence I see after 25 years driving in different states. They way people drive down here is a major issue.

        • jackary on 02/12/2014 - 15:30
          +2

          Clearly you've never been to Queensland

    • [Deactivated] on 02/12/2014 - 14:22
      +2

      If you are driving so slowly on the slow lane of a freeway as to impede someone, you should not be on the freeway. In the far left lane of a 100kmh freeway, anything under 90kmh is down right dangerous. The closing speed between you and the other cars on the road is too great.

      • [Deactivated] on 02/12/2014 - 14:59

        Wrong. I was driving at the speed limit. Stop making assumptions to support your arguments.

        • [Deactivated] on 02/12/2014 - 15:53
          +1

          Maybe you should check your speedo calibration, as I find it highly doubtful that someone would be all over your backside if you were at the speed limit in the slow lane.

  • HEADCAT on 02/12/2014 - 13:48

    If a highway patrol vehicle had been in the vicinity during OPs incident, who would have been more likely to be pulled over by the police? OP for driving in the right lane, or the X5? I do not for a second believe that you deserved what you went through for driving safely within your means.

    • tonyjzx on 02/12/2014 - 13:50
      +4

      if your 'means' is that low, stay in the left lane?

      • [Deactivated] on 02/12/2014 - 14:40
        -1

        is 100kmph low?

    • raffaharley on 02/12/2014 - 14:06

      Depends who comes up with the best story.

      • tonyjzx on 02/12/2014 - 14:09

        i'm guessing Mr BMW X5 can afford the police harrassment but hey, not like as if I own a $100k SUV either

  • itstuan on 02/12/2014 - 13:54
    +2

    If I'm on the far right lane, I would normally give way for cars that travelling faster. But if there's some ass**** like to tailgating and road raging. I'll make sure they dont get an inch from me.

  • raffaharley on 02/12/2014 - 13:55
    +1

    I agree with a lot of other people on here, and Im not directing this at anyone. Generally on multi-lane roads over 80KM/h, its keep left unless overtaking. If someone is so adamant on not speeding then they should ease off and slip behind cars in the left lane. No one knows what the guys situation behind them is, nor should anyone try to impose their own limit on others. If other people want to go faster let them go…safer for you and everyone else around you. If your not overtaking you should not be in the right hand lane, you cant just sit there next to another car causing a blockage of the lanes.
    Also the road is there to share and common courtesy should prevail from both sides, he should give you a bit of time and space to do your maneuver, and you should allow him to pass by freeing up the right hand lane.

    • tonyjzx on 02/12/2014 - 14:00
      +1

      in NSW the signs are clear

      'keep left unless overtaking, penalty exceeds $110'

      dont know if this is normal down there or in QLD either

      • [Deactivated] on 02/12/2014 - 14:20
        +1

        And speeding fines start at, what, several hundred dollars with points nd possible license suspension. So which crime is considered the more dangerous?

        How many times have you ever heard: "fatal driving incident, with driving in the right lane a likely cause"? Never I bet.

        • tonyjzx on 02/12/2014 - 14:21

          hey i'm just stating whats on the sign

          you wanna take your complaints up with the authorities

          'hey rta dudes, i dont like your sign, could you take them down, kthxbye'

        • raffaharley on 02/12/2014 - 14:55
          +1

          You dont know that. The driver being held up and frustrated in the back could end up doing something stupid. Hes tailgating you and if something goes wrong you could both end up being impacted. Best not to be involved over some self righteous ideal you have. Nothing to do with which is more dangerous, more to do with not causeing a worse situation.

        • [Deactivated] on 02/12/2014 - 18:21

          @raffaharley: if that person is so volatile they aren't responsible enough to be on the road.

          Funny how these gutless wonders aren't acosting people for impeding their flow down the footpath! Because they are indeed gutless.

  • Targaryen on 02/12/2014 - 14:11
    +6

    OP you wanted to overtake but not overtaking anyone as youre already travelling at 100km/hr in the far right lane. You are an annoying driver.

    Its not your job and responsibility to block off the traffic on the far right lane. Indicate left, slow down and give way. The X5 driver moved to another lane, taking risks just to get around you. Had he had an accident it may be his fault but you are a contributing driver to this accident as you annoyed him by forcing him to drive and take extra risks unnecessarily around the slower side of traffic. You keep reasoning you are obeying the speed limit but you are still a danger(did I mention annoying) to others by closing the far right hand lane.

    • [Deactivated] on 02/12/2014 - 14:19
      -1

      If the X5 driver is such a ticking time bomb, they shouldn't even be on the road, let alone overtaking people.

      • tonyjzx on 02/12/2014 - 14:22
        +3

        if the lane was clear of slow drivers then there would be no rage and OP wouldnt be feeling 'bad'

        thats the first step to recovery

        • Tech5 on 02/12/2014 - 16:58

          What do you mean by slow? Is sitting on the 100k/hour speed limit slow? Are you legally allowed to go faster?

          Obviously if OP slowed and changed lanes, the BMW would not legally be able to use the overtake lane, considering they are all already travelling at 100k/h.

          I know the general rule is people driving on the speed limit should stick left. That doesn't make it legal for people to go faster though.

  • rickxs on 02/12/2014 - 14:22
    +2

    none of the 3 —you were at fault sitting in overtaking lane twidling along same as the cars in the other lanes
    indicate left & slow down to fit in with traffic — BMW would make allowance that your TRYING to do the right thing ,not hog the lane even though by circumstance you were caught in the said lane

  • shaybisc on 02/12/2014 - 14:25
    +6

    I drive on average 30kph over the speed limit all the time cos of my higher skill level and this sort of thing happens all the time- makes me so mad.

  • Smulder on 02/12/2014 - 14:31
    +2

    Use some common sense and have some situational awareness. If there is no-one in front of you and a line-up of cars behind you, then you are obviously impeding the flow of traffic and should move over.

  • joffmc on 02/12/2014 - 14:34
    +3

    Probably best asking police for your legal road rights, not here. As you've seen, you'll only get people's opinions on this forum and from what I've read most of them have nfi and are as spirited as your tailgater.

    Just imo, as much as i dislike 'right lane hoggers', tailgating idiots are worse and more dangerous (even a slight clip could be catastrophic). I don't think slowing down would've been an option, it would have just enraged the twat more.

    This isn't right advice but i would've sped up slightly while indicating (even just a few kmh is noticable) and try get in the left lane. Then at least you're showing the dick behind you you're making an attempt to give way.

  • tonyjzx on 02/12/2014 - 14:35
    +3

    the reality is you cant control how people behave in their cars

    could Mr X5 behave better? sure

    you CAN control where you are on the road

    you should move out as soon as you see someone move fast behind you in the right lane

    thats just common courtesy

    i cant understand how people can be so rude and have the nerve to conflate the situation after that

  • X3 on 02/12/2014 - 14:36
    +6

    Its interesting how many posts are focused entirely on legalities. Of course, the law is the law and we're all obliged to adhere to it.

    But what about plain old common sense? Simply stay off the right lane unless overtaking. So friggin easy.

    Any argument about it being legal to be doing the speed limit on the right lane is moot. Someone wanting to go faster or overtake on the overtaking lane will see the 'righteous' driver blocking his way as a toolbag and you are the red rag to his bull.

    Save yourself the grief and don't hold them up, just move over, even if it means slowing down to wait for a gap but making sure you indicate (so the guy at least knows your intention)

  • lysp on 02/12/2014 - 14:39
    +4

    I often sit a touch over in the far right lane. When taking into account speed accuracy, I'm more than likely sitting either on the limit or 2-3km over the limit.

    If there is a gap on the left I'll immediately get out of the right lane and sit in the middle lane.

    Also when I'm driving, I'm taking into account all my surroundings and traffic around me - that includes cars behind me.

    More than often I'll see a car who wants to go faster than me. Before I move into the right lane I check the speed/gap behind me and let them passed first before moving into that lane. Or alternatively I'll pull into the middle lane and straight back into the right lane once they've passed me if they are going significantly faster.

    If people want to speed - that's their issue, not mine. If the choose to do that, that doesn't stop me from being considerate for all other drivers around me.

    People going slower than traffic flow in the right lane can be more dangerous than speeding. It forces many people to undertake, change lanes and weave in and out of traffic - increasing chances of accidents occurring. If people stayed in the left or middle lanes, people could get past without having to take riskier manoeuvres.

  • TheBird on 02/12/2014 - 15:19
    +8

    I'm a little worried that no one has mentioned that you got yourself into a situation where you're in a damned if I do, damned if I don't, most likely through either poor decision making or lack of experience. It happens to most people from time to time and we learn from it. To be honest, I'm a little disgusted that you're so pig headed that you don't acknowledge your errors and look for excuses to continue being a poor driver.

    The fact that you're in the overtaking lane without overtaking, you've put yourself in the lose/lose position. Do you speed (breaking the law) or do you maintain your speed and fail to overtake in the overtaking lane (also breaking the law), potentially blocking someone who may have an emergency and needs to get through.

    The tailgating driver may be in the wrong. We'll never know unless s/he comes on and posts. All we know if you definitely were in the wrong. Acknowledge and learn from the experience and move on.

  • rmamila on 02/12/2014 - 15:21

    Mate I can't vote for this poll as I don't see my answer in the list.

    First of all stop thinking that you did anything wrong due to the aggressive behavior you saw from the other driver. He could have been high on ICE :) So you can just ignore that.

    You are not wrong legally. But you could be wrong ethically if you could have avoided going on right most lane in the first place if there was a way for you to get into the next lane. As you explained you were driving at the same speed as the next lane, that means there's no reason for you to be on the right most lane for a too long distance anyway because you are not over taking.

    If you had seen one of the recent Myth Busters episode, they were experimenting with drivers moving slowly, breaking un-necessarily, etc and it's clearly visible how they create almost dead locks and heavy traffics for no real reason to have it. The same amount of vehicles could move at the constant speed once you remove those stupid drivers off the road. Every morning when I drive on Springvale Road looking at the very slow big trucks driving all the way for 10 km stretches on right most lane creating huge traffic on the road, it reminds me this Myth Buster program now.

    It's amazing when I see long way of traffic on right most lane just before Wellington intersection and if I get a chance to move to middle lane a get a good run, there is a very big chance that I see a truck or couple of very slow drivers on right most lane while very long line of traffic is created just on that lane till Princess hwy. It's so sad to see only less than 4-5 vehicles have managed to move on to the long stretch of turning lane to the Wellington, while so many others are still waiting on Springvale Rd. I wish one day some traffic specialist will observe this at this junction and do something, at least some notices to stop very slow drivers or vehicles blocking all 3 lanes there. Most days I see all 3 lanes are blocked by few slow/heavy vehicles (it could be tine car with a slow driver who picks up far slower than trucks). This is when majority of the trucks and slow drivers have a brain to go on middle lane knowing their capabilities. Some are still proud to lead the way very slowing blocking all the traffic.

    If we could fix this problem on the road it'll save the country lots of time and un-necessary panics on the road. You don't have to break the rules, or speed over the limit just need to stick with common sense.

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