Using Truck vs. Car Lanes on Interstate

[MoHoGo]

This is regarding a Class A Diesel Motorhome. In New Jersey the Turnpike is divided into truck and car lanes. I was wondering if motorhomes can use the car only lanes or do they need to use the truck lanes. What about other states in general?

It is not a question of height as the lanes run parallel to each other.

Thanks

Jim

[no3putt]

We just drive in the truck lanes, but don't think you will be in trouble in either. We also use truck lanes at tolls, they usually are wider.

[deandec]

In California a registered MH is a Housecar in the regulations.

So, even if it weighs 50,000 pounds its use is regulated by auto rules. (except for weight and length rules of course).

Do not know about other State rules.

[Selah]

I always use the truck lanes. This includes construction sites that tell trucks to use one lane or the other. Same for roads that state no trucks left lane. Its probably not illeagel to use those lanes, I just don't do it. At 44K+ GVRW I consider my self a big rig.

[D Lindy]

One BIG issue on some roads could well be overhead clearances. In the truck lanes you know they'll be at least 13'6", in the car lanes you never know.

[Bullitt]

Please use caution when entering Los Angeles on the southbound I-5 truck lanes. At the 14 Freeway connector there is a lengthy truck lane tunnel that sees a lot of accidents. The first photo depicts a multi-vehicle pile-up and fire that occurred in the tunnel, which cause these truck lanes to be closed for weeks.

Also attached are examples of obstacles you may encounter while traveling on Los Angeles area freeways.








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[Fred and Bonnie]

Originally Posted by deandec

In California a registered MH is a Housecar in the regulations.

So, even if it weighs 50,000 pounds its use is regulated by auto rules. (except for weight and length rules of course).

Do not know about other State rules.

This is true, however if you tow in Calif. the speed limit is 55mph, if you are in the auto lanes you will surely PI**-OFF lots of drivers.

I normally move along at 59 mph and in the far right lane, regardless of the speed limits. I am comfortable at that speed and can enjoy the views.

Fred

[deandec]

Originally Posted by Fred and Bonnie

This is true, however if you tow in Calif. the speed limit is 55mph, if you are in the auto lanes you will surely PI**-OFF lots of drivers.

I normally move along at 59 mph and in the far right lane, regardless of the speed limits. I am comfortable at that speed and can enjoy the views.

Fred

Of course, towing by cars is also limited to 55mph in Ca.

So you have choose whether to pi** off a lot of drivers or get a ticket from the LEO even when towing your boat. I know this from experience.

I am not sure why that has anything to do with using truck routes?

[Fred and Bonnie]

Originally Posted by deandec

Of course, towing by cars is also limited to 55mph in Ca.

ALL vehicles towing in Calif. are limited to 55 mph. That's why the use of truck lanes/routes should be the preferred route.

Fred

[Tony Lee]

Also attached are examples of obstacles you may encounter while traveling on Los Angeles area freeways.

Image 2 also applies in Tokyo and a few other cities if you believe all you see on the web.

[bulldog2]

Originally Posted by Bullitt

Please use caution when entering Los Angeles on the southbound I-5 truck lanes. At the 14 Freeway connector there is a lengthy truck lane tunnel that sees a lot of accidents. The first photo depicts a multi-vehicle pile-up and fire that occurred in the tunnel, which cause these truck lanes to be closed for weeks.

Also attached are examples of obstacles you may encounter while traveling on Los Angeles area freeways.

Attachment 77388

Attachment 77389

Attachment 77390

Attachment 77391
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by the second pic I can see its got NO better since 1972

[cimplexsound]

RViers should always use the truck lane except when passing.


1979 Dodge Tioga Class C 24 foot. 1987 Fleetwood Bounder 34 Foot.

[csrrsr]

I will always use the right lane unless it's a temporary lane or state traffic signs say to use the left lane for thru traffic. At 60 mph, traffic including big rigs, are all going faster than I am anyway. In large cities I try to use the middle of 4-5 lanes to give room for the traffic entering the highway. But many times we all come to a stop anyway and nobody has the advantage of moving!

[fastcat]

Many states, at least out west, have signs on the freeway saying (not a direct quote) trucks, camper, buses trailers etc. use right lanes except when passing. Washington state has signs saying vehicles over 10K (again not a direct quote) not allowed in left lane.

With that in mind, I almost always use the right lane(s).