Motorcycle lane splitting is when the motorcyclist passes between lanes on the road when there’s traffic or when cars are immobile or moving slowly. Considered lane splitting is defined by the California Vehicle Code and involves specific safety considerations and tips, including the types of roads where it is allowed and factors to consider for safe lane splitting. The narrow shape of motorcycles enables them to perform this maneuver.
Lane-splitting keeps coming up in conversations because more and more people own motorcycles to ease transportation for fun and business-related purposes. Due to this, motorists are constantly wondering if it is even legal for motorcyclists to move between lanes on roads.
Is Lane Splitting Legal in California?
To answer the question of the legality of lane-splitting, one must bear in mind that lane-splitting laws differ in various regions. It is common to see motorcyclists lane-splitting in most parts of Europe and underdeveloped countries.
Still,Lane splitting was legalized on August 19, 2016, in California, after Governor Jerry Brown signed the California Assembly Bill 51 (AB 51) which permits the act and gives the California Department of Highways the license to create guidelines to ensure the safety of motorists concerning lane splitting. The California Vehicle Code allows lane splitting under certain conditions. According to section 21658.1 of the California Vehicle Code, “a motorcycle, other than a motorized bicycle, may be driven between rows of stopped or moving vehicles in the same lane if it is safe to do so.”
At What Speed Can You Split Lanes in California?
The university’s study also proved that lane-splitting is safe if traffic is at 50 mph or less and motorcyclists do not exceed the speed of the surrounding traffic by more than 10 mph. Lane-splitting is a safe practice because drivers and riders stand to gain more from embracing the approach. For instance, lane-splitting motorcyclists allow vehicles to occupy the vacated lanes, which speeds up traffic that would otherwise be slower.
The cyclist must travel at roughly 15 mph on roads with a 50 mph or lower speed limit between vehicles on two or more lanes. Filtering, in this case, can only occur if the vehicles have all stopped, according to the bill passed by Governor Spencer Cox.
US States and Lane Splitting Laws
In the United States, different states have different laws, with California being the only state where lane-splitting is entirely legal. Lane splitting is only allowed between lanes or on a divided road where traffic is moving in the same direction. However, motorists practiced lane-splitting illegally before it was officially legalized in the state.
Other states considering adopting lane-splitting and lane-filtering include Connecticut, Hawaii, Oregon, Maryland, Arizona, Montana, and Virginia. Hawaii allows motorcyclists to “shoulder-surf” or ride past traffic that has stopped. Montana allows lane filtering if the motorcycle riders drive below 50 mph and ensures they don’t exceed 10 mph speed compared to other riders. Virginia is still considering legalizing lane filtering. Arizona’s lane filtering rules are similar to those of Utah.
In some states, like Utah, a form of lane splitting referred to as ‘lane filtering’ was legalized as of May 14, 2022. Lane filtering occurs when the cyclist filters forward from different lanes to the front at a traffic stop, mostly at red lights. The state has also laid down rules to guide motorists.
UC Berkeley Study Highlights Benefits of Lane Splitting
Since motorcycles are here to stay, and car drivers and cyclists seem to have this ongoing disagreement on whether it is right to lane-split in the first place, the University of California Berkeleysurveyed approximately 6,000 motorcycle traffic accidents. It came up with statistically proven facts to support the adoption of lane-splitting:
- Motorcyclists who lane split tend to be more vigilant about safety and are more likely to wear proper protective gear, such as helmets and jackets, which decreases the likelihood of severe injuries, particularly head injuries.
- These riders are statistically less likely to ride while intoxicated, contributing to safer driving conditions.
- Lane-splitting motorcyclists are less frequently involved in rear-end collisions compared to those who stay in a single lane, potentially due to their ability to avoid being struck from behind.
- Lane splitters typically maintain lower and more controlled speeds, especially in heavy traffic, reducing the risk of high-speed accidents.
- Additionally, lane splitting can help reduce overall traffic congestion and improve the flow of motor vehicles.
These insights from the UC Berkeley study provide strong support for lane splitting as a safer and potentially beneficial practice when executed responsibly.
Motorcycle Statistics
According to the National Safety Council data in the United States, motorcycles represent a small fraction of road traffic, comprising only 3% of all registered vehicles and accounting for just 0.7% of the total miles traveled by all vehicles. Despite this, motorcyclists are disproportionately involved in traffic accidents, making up 14.6% of all traffic fatalities and 3.5% of all injuries in 2022. One of the critical factors impacting these fatality rates is helmet usage, which significantly influences the outcomes of motorcycle crashes.
Lane splitting can help improve the flow of motor vehicles and reduce traffic congestion.
- From 2021 to 2022, there was a slight 1% increase in the number of deaths among motorcycle riders and passengers. However, the fatality rate, when measured per 100 million vehicle miles traveled, actually decreased by 16% during the same period.
- This reduction in the fatality rate per mile is partly due to a 21% increase in the total miles traveled by motorcyclists in 2022 compared to 2021.
- Over the past decade, motorcycle fatalities have risen by 32%, and the death rate per mile has increased by 13%. In 2022, the total number of motorcycle-related deaths reached 6,218, with a fatality rate of 26.16 per 100 million vehicle miles traveled.
Limitations of California’s Lane Splitting Laws
Although lane splitting and lane sharing (when motorcyclists ride side by side on the same lane) are legal in California, there are still some situations that would get a rider in trouble with the law. The exception to lane splitting is:
- Shoulder of the Road: Lane splitting is not allowed on the shoulder of the road. This is because the shoulder is intended for emergency stops and pedestrian safety. Riding there could endanger both the motorcyclist and others on the road.
- Speed of Traffic: While lane splitting is permitted, it’s not advisable when traffic is moving close to the speed limit. Lane splitting safely requires a significant speed differential between the motorcycle and the surrounding vehicles. If traffic is already moving at or near the speed limit, there may not be enough space for safe maneuvering. Attempting to split lanes in such conditions increases the risk of accidents.
Therefore, while lane splitting is legal in California, riders need to exercise caution and judgment. It’s essential to assess traffic conditions and only lane split when it can be done safely, with a significant speed difference between the motorcycle and surrounding vehicles, and without endangering oneself or others on the road.
Responsible lane splitting is crucial for ensuring safety and accountability on the roads.
Motorcycle Lane Splitting Safety Advice
Motorcycle Lane Splitting in California 2
The California Highway Patrol (CHP)issued some lane-splitting safety guidelines on September 27, 2018, to be practiced to ensure motorists’ safety. Although CHP disregarded it due to a complaint, here is a sneak peek into the general idea of the tips issued:
- Riders must be acutely aware of the dangers of riding at speeds higher than those approved by regulatory bodies for motorists when lane splitting—noting that higher speed goes hand in hand with an increased risk of danger.
- The California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP) administered by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) is an official program for motorcycle safety and training.
- Riders should avoid splitting or sharing with semi trucks or other large vehicles.
- Ensure that you’re visible at all times during traffic. This can be aided by wearing brightly colored protective gear or high beams during daylight.
- Avoid any road usage practices considered an exception to lane splitting, like riding on the shoulder of the road.
- Even though lane splitting is legal, other factors should also be considered when deciding on lane splitting, like the weather at the time, the size of other vehicles, and the width of the road, amongst others.
Guidelines For Car Drivers and All Motorists
- Drivers should consciously move to the left of their traffic lanes to allow motorcyclists to ride.
- All motorists should show responsibility by regularly checking their rearview mirrors to ensure that when there’s a need to swap lanes or turn, they don’t put other motorists at risk.
- Drivers should be aware of the speed and movement of surrounding traffic when lane splitting.
- Watch out for motorists and be alert to any indication of any movement to prevent unnecessary casualties.
- Drivers should know that deliberately blocking motorcyclists from lane splitting is illegal, including opening car doors to prevent riders from moving past.
- Drivers should never forget that lane splitting has been officially legalized in California, so it should go a long way in calming their rage when it occurs.
- Road Users should never drive or ride under the influence of alcohol or any drug to avoid being a threat to themselves and others.
- Use adequate means to inform other drivers and riders of planned movements. For instance, using a trafficator to signify a turn.
- Motorists should always be focused and alert for potholes, bumps, and other drivers that could jeopardize their safety.
Despite the legalization of lane splitting, many drivers are still against this move. It’s best to consider its many advantages, especially in decongesting traffic and enabling drivers and riders to move faster. Although lane splitting is now legal in California, motorcyclists still have strict rules to follow.
Motorcyclists’ legal issues after sustaining a personal injury due to an accident linked to lane splitting can be tricky, even in a state where it’s legal. Ensure you take pictures and videos, collect necessary information, and acquire an excellent Woodland Hills personal injury attorney. Ensure you’re always following rules laid down by regulatory bodies.
Bojat Law Group: Your Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
While motorcycle lane splitting offers advantages in traffic navigation, adherence to legal guidelines and safety practices is crucial. By staying informed and practicing caution, riders can enjoy the benefits of lane splitting while minimizing risks. If you were involved in a motorcycle accident and you’re seeking proper counsel, contact us at Bojat Law Group, to get in touch with a motorcycle accident lawyer and learn how we can assist you with the proper legal solutions for your case and navigate the complexities of California traffic laws.
In the event of a lane splitting accident caused by a negligent driver, you may be entitled to file a personal injury claim and seek compensation for losses incurred.
