What is Worse in North Carolina: Driving Too Fast or Driving Too Slow?

While most people know that speeding can be dangerous, the hazards of driving too slowly are more subtle. However, driving too slowly can cause accidents, especially on highways. Officials and lawmakers in North Carolina are well aware of this fact, and they are passing new laws to punish those who drive too slowly. But which is worse? A ticket for driving too slowly, or a speeding ticket in North Carolina? 

New Law Would Punish Motorists Who Drive Too Slow in North Carolina

In May of 2025, multiple sources reported that lawmakers had proposed a bill to punish motorists who drive too slowly. House Bill 864 would create a “minimum speed” of 45 miles per hour in 55-mph zones. In a 60-mph zone, the minimum speed would increase to 50 mph. Minimum speeds would vary based on the posted speed limit of each road, but the general rule would be that motorists cannot drive more than 10 mph below the limit. 

The bill itself does not mention what the penalty for a violation would be. However, we can assume that violators would get points on their licenses as well as fines. 

Drivers who “hog the left lane” would probably be targeted by highway patrol troopers if this bill passes. Those who drive too slowly in the left lane create particularly high hazards, contributing to congestion and often causing drivers to attempt dangerous passing maneuvers. 

Speeding Tickets Would Probably Be Worse

Although this new law could cause headaches for many North Carolina motorists, a speeding ticket would still probably lead to more serious consequences. The Tar Heel State has “super speeder” laws that enforce potential jail sentences for those who reach particularly high speeds. 

In contrast, a ticket for driving too slow would probably lead to penalties similar to running a red light. That said, a minor speeding ticket could potentially cause the same number of points and a similar fine compared to a ticket for driving too slow. 

There is no way to tell whether this bill will pass, and we can only speculate about future tickets for slow drivers. States like Florida, Georgia, Indiana, New Jersey, and Tennessee already have laws that punish slow motorists, and North Carolina could soon follow suit. Although getting a ticket for driving too slow might sound outlandish, this is certainly not unheard of in the United States. 

Can a North Carolina Traffic Ticket Attorney Help Me?

Whether you have received a ticket for speeding or driving too slowly, a North Carolina traffic ticket attorney should be able to help. With their assistance, you may be able to fight your ticket during a DMV hearing. You might also have the opportunity to explore alternative penalties, such as defensive driving courses. Speak with Coastal South Law today to learn more about your options.