Nobody likes being stuck behind a slow driver. When that driver refuses to get out of the passing lane, it’s not only annoying, but dangerous. That’s exactly why Indiana State Police Trooper Sgt. Stephen Wheeles stepped in.
“The driver had approximately 20 cars slowed behind her because she would not move back to the right lane,” Wheeles tweeted. “Again … if there are vehicles behind you, you must move to the right lane to allow them to pass.”
We couldn’t agree more.
I stopped this vehicle today for a left lane violation on I-65. The driver had approximately 20 cars slowed behind her because she would not move back to the right lane.
Again…if there are vehicles behind you, you must move to the right lane to allow them to pass. pic.twitter.com/tePjJ1Xigy
— Sgt. Stephen Wheeles (@ISPVersailles) June 16, 2018
The officer even captured the attention of legendary former NFL quarterback, Troy Aikman. A truck driver acknowledged the significance, praising Wheeles for a job well done.
Finally!👍🏼 https://t.co/uoMILPnhfT
— Troy Aikman (@TroyAikman) June 18, 2018
When one of the best QB in nfl history @TroyAikman likes what you’ve done, that is a job well done trooper! Thanks! I’m a truck driver see this a lot!!!
— Jose Tule (@TuleJalisco1) June 18, 2018
Some people went so far as to edit road signs that we all wish were real.
— Richman (@hrdcorefan) June 17, 2018
People from all across the nation were thanking him for pulling over the sluggish driver. Some of them asked if Wheeles could patrol their home state.
Can you transfer to Florida and patrol?
— J.R. (@JR_postal) June 17, 2018
Definitely need you in Louisiana! I see so many near accidents from this everyday. My blood pressure would appreciate the help.
— sara (@serafine61) June 17, 2018
Yooooooo, do you wanna come to Hawaii and tell everyone that?? 😅 pic.twitter.com/rNuH1ER8wO
— Kaya ✌🏻 (@KayaChristine33) June 17, 2018
He also received a solid shoutout from The Outkick Show.
“Today we salute Indiana Police Officer Stephen Wheeles (@ISPVersailles) – one of the greatest heroes ever – for making America’s Interstates Great Again by ticketing a left-lane driver who caused a massive traffic jam for failing to move over to the right lane.” – @ClayTravis pic.twitter.com/flBfKvMBS8
— Outkick the Coverage (@Outkick) June 19, 2018
Wheeles was even televised for his popular traffic stop in an interview with Fox & Friends First.
Thanks @FoxFriendsFirst and @HeatherChilders for having me on this morning to talk about my tweet about drivers who violate the “Left Lane Law”. I enjoyed it!! https://t.co/9SVewxngG3
— Sgt. Stephen Wheeles (@ISPVersailles) June 20, 2018
Wheeles wanted to assure everyone that he is not encouraging speeding. He just wants everyone to be aware of the dangers involved with driving so far under the speed limit in the passing lane.
This is in no way encouraging people to speed. Those speeders are definitely in violation also. Vehicles all travel at different speeds. It was put in place to keep left lane drivers (or the family ten cars back) from getting run over by faster traffic while in the left lane.
— Sgt. Stephen Wheeles (@ISPVersailles) June 17, 2018
This situation drew out some humor, but in all seriousness, we appreciate you Sergeant Wheeles. Keep up the good work.