Lane-splitting, also called lane filtering, occurs when a motorcyclist rides between two traffic lanes with the same direction of travel, usually in heavy traffic. In 2021, lane-splitting became legal in Montana, making it easier for motorcyclists to navigate congested roads.
Understanding Montana lane-splitting laws will help you use this riding tactic lawfully and safely. Here is how lane filtering works in Montana.
Updated 2021 Montana Lane-Splitting Laws
The Montana Senate Bill 9 went into effect on October 1, 2021, making lane-splitting legal in Big Sky Country. This legislation update allows motorcyclists to split lanes provided that:
- The rider observes a speed limit of 20 mph
- The lane width is sufficient to allow safe passage
- The weather and road conditions permit safe and reasonable motorbike operation during lane-splitting
Lane-splitting laws in Montana require motorcyclists to use common sense. It will be up to you, as a responsible rider, to evaluate whether the road and traffic conditions are suitable for safe lane-splitting.
How Lane-Splitting Helps Motorcycle Riders and Automobile Drivers
Montana lane-splitting laws strive to make roads safer for both motorcyclists and car drivers. In urban areas with heavy traffic, motorcyclists are at a higher risk of getting caught between vehicles and suffering a rear-end accident.
Lane-splitting helps overcome this hazard by allowing riders to advance to the front of the traffic line. When you lane-filter, you can find a safer position with better visibility. A study by the University of California, Berkeley, found that lane-splitting may increase road safety and reduce severe and fatal accident injury rates for motorcyclists.
Because the Montana lane-splitting laws are comparatively new, some drivers aren’t aware that lane-splitting is legal in Montana. Others may view this riding practice as dangerous and aggressive. However, careful lane-splitting may benefit all road users by allowing motorcyclists to move away from the blind spots of larger vehicles.
Tips for Safe Lane-Splitting
Lane filtering can reduce driving time on congested roads, provided that you use this riding maneuver prudently and lawfully. These tips will help you lane-split safely in Montana:
- Observe speed limits when lane-splitting. A wise rule of thumb is riding no more than 10 mph faster than the traffic you’re passing.
- Keep some extra space between your bike and other vehicles. Beware of car mirrors.
- Ride in a straight line as much as possible when lane-splitting. Avoid weaving, which can startle drivers and cause an accident.
- Be ready to put brakes on in case the vehicle in front suddenly pulls up.
- Observe drivers’ turn signals if you notice a vehicle’s turn signal is active, let it switch lanes before you pass.
- Be extra careful when you ride between two lanes, one of which moves at a significantly faster pace. Drivers from the slower lane may try to switch to the faster lane, which could put you in danger.
- Use your judgment. Road curves, poor visibility, inclement weather, bad road conditions, and the blind spots of large vehicles like trucks may make lane-splitting highly dangerous.
- Always use proper safety gear. While motorcycle helmets are optional for riders over 18 in Montana, a DOT-approved helmet can save your life or prevent serious injury.
Law Tigers: The Go-To Legal Network for Riders in Montana and Nationwide
Following Montana lane-splitting laws will help keep you safe on the road. However, even the most careful riders may end up in a motorbike accident.
If you suffer a motorcycle accident in Montana, call Law Tigers. Our skilled, dedicated lawyers are also fellow riders, and we’ll evaluate your case and handle the entire process of your motorbike accident claim. Call 1-888-863-7216 24/7 for a free case evaluation.
