Why do big rigs drive so slow on highways?

Doctor Detour answers your transportation questions.

Q: I use Florida’s Turnpike and Interstate 95 a great deal. I have been bothered by the tendency of trucks traveling in the middle lane to go at speeds 10-15 mph below the speed limit. This often slows up traffic. Is there some “rule of the road” that truckers use that directs them to the middle lane? Ken Goodfriend, Tamarac.

A: Florida law states tractor trailers cannot drive in the left lane unless it’s for passing or to get around an obstruction such as a crash or disabled vehicle.

They generally do not drive in the right lane of multi-lane roadways to make room for smaller vehicles that enter and exit the highway frequently.

That leaves the middle lanes where truckers can drive the speed limit. But because of their size and weight, tractor trailers may drive a little slower to allow more room for a quick stop, especially in heavy traffic where car drivers are prone to cut in front of them.

Big rig drivers also have several blind spots to contend with so that’s another reason for being more cautious.

Q: When someone dials *FHP they have to listen to the options menu and then make a selection. If you’re calling for troopers or a Road Ranger, won’t those extra steps distract a driver and shouldn’t the calls automatically go to a dispatcher? Rafael Borrero, Weston.

A: To test the *FHP system, which is *347 on a cellphone, I called several times day and night and dispatchers always answered within four rings.

Florida Highway Patrol Lt. Alvaro Feola said you may have to wait for someone to answer if

dispatchers are overwhelmed by a lot of calls coming in at the same time, but that’s unlikely.

He had not heard of any caller getting stuck making selections from a menu of phone extensions. That might only happen if you call the FHP’s non-emergency number.

To report a road hazard or crash or impaired driver you can call *FHP. If it looks like a life or death emergency, you can also call 911.