To most motorcyclists, the convenience of navigating more easily through congested traffic is a preference of two-wheeled commuting. It makes us recall the phrases “lane filtering” and “lane splitting,” though commonly used in replacement forms, technically speak about distinct maneuvers with different levels of legality throughout the United States. Being aware of the distinction is a plus for safety and the prevention of expensive fines.
Analysis of the Maneuvers: Lane Splitting and Filtering
Lane splitting is a precise term to use when a motorcyclist travels through two lanes of slowing or stationary traffic on a multi-lane freeway or highway. They are technically passing slowing traffic, but slower, or stationary traffic. It is done to travel through traffic quicker.
Lane filtering, though, is a less common and more typically not violent maneuver. It may be applied best to describe a motorcyclist filtering through lanes of slowing or stopped vehicles in an attempt to gain access to the front of the queue. The biggest variation here is the slowing down of traffic around them filtering occurs at very slow speeds, and the motorcyclist is essentially gaining access to the front of a queue of stopped traffic.
The Legal Landscape: State-by-State Patchwork
Lane filtering and lane splitting are controversial and difficult to legally categorize on a general state-by-state basis. They are largely banned in most states now, but increasingly more of them are reconsidering, typically in an effort to reduce traffic congestion and improve motorcycle safety by reducing rear-end crashes.
California led the way in legislation to permit lane splitting on safety grounds to enable motorcyclists to get out of the danger of slow or stationary traffic. Arizona, Utah, Montana, and a few others emulated similar legislation to permit partial lane filtering subject to certain speeds and traffic conditions. For example, filtering in some states is permissible while riding below a certain speed of traffic, or as long as the speed restriction supports it.
Conversely, where the practice is prohibited, offenders caught lane splitting or filtering are fined, have their licenses penalized, and in some cases, face charges of reckless driving. The justification for banning the practice is generally one of safety, arguing that the practice puts not just the motorcyclist but other road users at risk.
Knowledge of Your State’s Position is Paramount
As legal circumstances grow so diverse, it is solely the rider’s personal responsibility to learn about and adhere to their home state’s and any that they will be passing through particular laws. Depending on legality can be ruinous. State Department of Motor Vehicles websites, motorcycle safety associations, and traffic law attorneys are excellent sources upon which to search for information on them.
Apart from legality, filtering or splitting also involves much individual responsibility. Even if legal, it involves ultra cautiousness, vigilance, and quickness. Motorcyclists cannot always rely on them to appear out of the blue within lanes, and sudden turns can create hazardous events.
Conclusion
Lane filtering and lane splitting controversy is a component of the ongoing search for balance between traffic flow, rider protection, and the inherent nature of riding motorcyclists. As much as you might wish to attempt evading gridlock, safety and legality take priority with dutiful motorcyclists. Master the laws of your state in full before you even think about attempting riding between the lanes. An educated rider is a safe one, and having you understand the difference between these maneuvers could mean life or death on the highway.
