that the left is a passing lane - you don't go for sunday drives in it. The problem in the US is that no one understands highway protocal they just drive wherever the fuck they please. Another thing is vehicle condition - you don't see junkers on the road as much - anyone going down the highway with a loose muffler or issues will be pulled fined and towed. There is a much higher standard of what is considered "road worthy". Its just a different culture.