What Are Lane Splitting Laws?
Several states have lane splitting laws that you need to be aware of. The states that have these laws include California, North Carolina, Wyoming, and Arizona. These laws require you to keep a certain distance between the vehicle ahead and you. If you are caught violating these laws, you may face a fine.
Arizona
During the legislative session of the year, Arizona lawmakers introduced a bill that would allow motorcycles to travel between lanes of traffic. Although the bill failed, it laid the groundwork for the passage of SB 1273. This law will allow motorcyclists to pass stopped vehicles and avoid rear-end collisions.
Lane splitting, also called lane filtering, is the practice of driving between lanes of stopped traffic. Previously, it was illegal in Arizona. However, the law was changed in March of 2022. The law states that motorcyclists can pass a stopped car or ride to the front of the traffic light if it is safe to do so.
California
Earlier this year, California Governor Jerry Brown signed a bill into law that defined lane splitting. The law will allow motorcycles to occupy spaces on the roadway, giving them the ability to safely move past vehicles and avoid road hazards.
Lane splitting is also known as lane asset protection. The practice of lane splitting can improve traffic flow and reduce traffic congestion, but also increases the risk of side-swipe collisions. In addition, the practice is illegal in most states.
The practice of lane splitting dates back to the 1960s. It began as a way to avoid traffic congestion, but also to get through traffic that was slow moving or bad. However, studies have found that lane splitting at high speeds is unsafe.
Idaho
Those who are interested in learning more about Idaho’s bicycle laws will find a list of regulations on Idaho’s Department of Transportation website. These rules are designed to help cyclists to follow the laws and to avoid being involved in an accident.
The laws also require riders to give an audible signal when passing a pedestrian. They must ride as close to the right side of the roadway as possible. They can also use the bike lane if available. Bicyclists can also ride on sidewalks, but must exercise due care when passing vehicles.
Idaho law also requires drivers to reduce speed when passing other vehicles. Drivers on roads with two lanes must reduce speed to a safe level to accommodate road conditions.
New Jersey
Having lane splitting laws in place is not only a safety issue for motorcyclists, but it also prevents rear end collisions. Besides, in many cases, lane splitting can actually reduce congestion and improve the flow of traffic.
Lane splitting is defined as a motorcyclist’s ability to pass stopped vehicles in their lane. The practice is not encouraged in New Jersey. However, in some states, it is legal.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are five times more likely to be injured in a crash than the occupants of a car. Drivers may be unaware of motorcycles and may attempt maneuvers at excessive speeds.
Wyoming
Whether lane splitting is legal or not depends on state legislation. Some states, like Alaska and North Dakota, make it illegal. Others, like California and Montana, allow it.
Lane splitting is not legal in Wyoming. Wyoming Statute 31-5-115 (g) states that no motorcycle shall be operated between lanes or rows of traffic. It is also illegal to encroach upon a motorcycle lane. The statute has some exceptions.
The Wyoming Highway Patrol may issue a restricted license if a driver experiences extreme inconvenience. An example of this would be if the driver has a young child in the back seat. The child must be 8 years old or younger.
North Carolina
Despite the fact that it’s not illegal, lane splitting is discouraged in North Carolina. But the practice is legal in some states, like California, where it’s called “stripe-riding” or “white lining.”
Lane splitting is a controversial topic. Some believe it’s a safer way to ride, but others think it’s a bad idea. Lane splitting can be dangerous and can lead to an accident. But it’s still possible to ride safely while splitting lanes.
If you’re riding a motorcycle, make sure you have the proper helmet, reflectors, and lights. Also, make sure you keep adequate distance from other road users. You also need to use your turn signals.