Everything Riders Should Know Before Lane Filtering
We’ve covered lane filtering on this blog multiple times in recent months and for good reason. The traffic technique has picked up steam across the nation, and more and more riders are being exposed to it and given the opportunity to partake.
So What is it?
Lane filtering is the more conservative version of lane splitting, which is common in California but illegal elsewhere. Lane filtering is when riders move forward through traffic heading in the same direction when traffic at large is either stopped or moving at a snail’s pace.
Where is it Legal?
Stay posted on this front because lane filtering is being made legal in more and more states all the time. It has recently been legalized in Utah, Montana, Arizona, Colorado, and Minnesota.
Meanwhile, more than a dozen other states effectively allow it, while several others are currently debating its merits, including Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, Missouri, Oregon, Texas, Virginia, and Washington.
Why Lane Filter?
Done properly, lane filtering can help reduce traffic congestion. And while motorcyclists are the primary beneficiary of these time savings, it actually helps everyone cut down on their commute by speeding up traffic more generally.
Additionally, it can prevent bikes and riders from overheating while sitting in traffic.
Most importantly, it can provide safety benefits by removing motorcycles from the impact zones between the front and rear of cars, while also increasing visibility.
But is it Really Safer?
It would be helpful if more studies were done to specifically look at lane filtering. However, one major study on its California cousin (“Motorcycle Lane-splitting and Safety in California” from California Berkeley’s Safe Transportation Research & Education Center) found that it does provide real benefits.
Among them were a reduced rate of fatalities, a lowered likelihood of being rear-ended, and generally less severe injuries in the event of a crash in traffic.
What You Need to Know
Okay, so now you’re curious and ready to give it a try. Here’s among the factors you should first consider:
- Is it Legal Where You Are?
This one should be pretty obvious. It’s not wise to lane filter where it’s strictly illegal for numerous reasons.
- What are the Specific Laws?
Among the states where it has been made legal, each one has their own particular twist on the act. Where and when is it legal? At what traffic speeds is it legal? How fast are you allowed to travel while lane filtering? And so on. Do your homework first.
- How Will Your Insurance Provider View it?
If you’re lane filtering where it is illegal and get in an accident, you’ll likely be deemed at fault regardless of the actions of the other driver(s) involved. And even where it is legal, it might get a bit murky. It depends on the context but keep that in mind.
- How Long Have the Rules Been on the Books?
Even when legalized, it’s likely going to take some time before traffic as a whole realizes it’s legal and understands its benefits. If it’s brand new, you’re more likely to take cars off guard, and drivers often respond with anger when surprised in the already tense environment of a traffic jam. Ease your way in.
- Understand it’s Not for Everyone
Lane filtering is best left to more experienced and skilled riders. It requires a high degree of situational awareness as well as a practiced defensive riding mindset. If you’re not comfortable with it, you’ll likely be safer sticking to conventional traffic patterns.
- Use Proper Etiquette
Again, reasonable or not, many drivers will likely be less than impressed with lane filtering, feeling a certain sense of unfairness as you glide through traffic while they’re stopped in place. Help combat their rage by riding courteously – give them a friendly wave of acknowledgement as you pass them by, for example.
If you were injured while lane filtering or involved in a motorcycle accident caused by a distracted or careless driver, you do not have to handle the aftermath alone. Insurance companies often try to blame riders first especially in crashes involving lane filtering or lane sharing situations.
Law Tigers helps connect injured riders with experienced motorcycle accident attorneys who understand rider rights, motorcycle laws, and the unique challenges motorcyclists face after a crash. Whether you are dealing with medical bills, lost wages, bike damage, or insurance disputes, help may be available.
Contact Law Tigers today for a free motorcycle accident consultation and learn what legal options may be available after your accident.
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