Around here, the left lane has become the designated dump truck lane. Not unusual to see them 3 abreast. When they merge onto the highway, right to the left lane they go, not even close to being up to speed
If the highway department would keep the right lane in better shape, I wouldn't be tempted to drive in the left.
There is a stretch of highway and a time of day that I will drive in the left lane unless somebody is gaining on me. An extra eight feet away from the shoulder and deer, dogs, coyotes, and cows is valuable.