Improper use of center lane
Florida Statute § 316.089(2)
Summary verified against the 2026 Florida Statutes: October 1, 2026.
Quick Summary
On a three-lane roadway carrying traffic in both directions, the center lane may be used only for a safe pass of same-direction traffic, preparation for a left turn, or travel in a direction exclusively assigned by traffic-control devices. Establish the three-lane/two-way layout and the purpose of the center-lane use. A general travel lane must not be assumed from an unoccupied center lane; record opposing traffic, markings, and any permitted turn or pass.
Summary sources
Classification, Points & Penalties
Classification, Points & Penalties
- Category
- Lane Use
- Type
- Moving
- Civil / Criminal
- Civil
- Offense Classification
- Moving infraction
- Points
- 3
- Fine / Penalty
- $60 base moving penalty; speeding/enhanced-zone schedules may differ
Base fines are not the total payable amount. Costs, enforcement method, crash consequences, prior history, and court disposition can change penalties or points. A reported zero does not rule out license suspension or revocation.
Court & Enforcement
Court & Enforcement
- Mandatory Court
- No, generally
- NTA Eligible
- N/A — civil citation
- Custodial Arrest
- No — civil infraction (absent separate lawful basis)
NTA means notice to appear. Eligibility is conditional; these fields do not independently authorize arrest. Confirm the exact statutory track, lawful arrest authority, traffic procedure, and agency policy.
Arrest authority guideCivil infractions resulting in death or serious bodily injury require a hearing under §318.19.