Splits-ville
Submitted by Northwest Harley Blog
Lane Splitting
Lane-splitting — most states do not recognize it as legal maneuver. For those unfamiliar with the “strip-riding” maneuver it is riding a motorcycle between lanes and between automobiles in the same direction as traffic.
It is not legal in Oregon or Washington state. It is legal in California.
Recently a couple buddies were on an extended motorcycle ride to L.A. Reluctant at first to try lane-splitting they quickly took up the maneuver after experiencing triple digit heat and traffic-congested freeways. They returned chatting up the positive merits and ability to move at a faster speed than traffic by way of a “motorcycle-only lane.” I think most people recognize that lane-splitting is a way for motorcyclists to save time and that it reduces congestion.
In fact, I’ve experienced my share — surprise — of motorcycles zipping by the rental car window. And yes, I sometimes resent it as I sit in bay area grid lock. My first reaction was it’s dangerous. Automobile drivers in CA., don’t typically use blinkers to signal intent unless it’s a latte stop. They dart from lane to lane distracted on cell phones and I have this visual image of a biker screeching to a concrete halt as part of a lane change collision.
What do you think:
- Legal or not — it’s a NOT a smart move to split-lanes.
- It can be safe and riders take responsibility for the consequences of their own actions.
- I’m a native California and consider myself exempt from OR and WA laws.
- CHP studies indicate it’s safe so I’m on board with anything the LEO’s say.
- It’s so not “fair” to all the other drivers and we all need to stay in our comfort zone.
Photo courtesy of CA State web site.
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October 2nd, 2009 at 12:33 am
I think it is ludicrious that CA requires a helmet but allows lane-splitting. Either they should be all for safety, or all for individual rights.