There are a lot of things that you need to do to stay safe and healthy as a motorcyclist. There are a lot of health benefits, as we talked about in this article.
Unfortunately, there are also a lot of health risks of riding a motorcycle too. Anyone that rides a motorcycle needs to take the right precautions to minimize the risk of getting injured. Some of these injuries can be very severe, so they should be avoided at all costs.
One thing that motorcyclists need to be aware of is the importance of knowing how to split lanes safely. This can reduce their likelihood of suffering serious injuries. Keep reading to learn more about this.
Splitting Lanes Safely is Important for Staying Safe as a Motorcyclist
Motorcyclists are more vulnerable than other road users, and in 2021, 5,932 motorcyclists were killed on America’s roads. That’s the worst statistic since data collection began in 1975.
Between January 2022 and February 2023, motorcyclists were involved in 251 crashes in Oregon, 44 of them fatal. Clackamas had the highest number of fatal crashes (9 out of a total of 29).
Risky riding is a huge factor in motorcycle crashes, and lane splitting can sometimes cause accidents.
Motorcycle lane splitting, also known as lane filtering, is when motorcycles ride in the space between two lanes of stopped or slowed vehicles during traffic congestion. This practice is legal in some states, like California, but illegal in others.
Legality of Lane Splitting in Oregon
While Oregon law lets motorcyclists ride two abreast in one lane, lane splitting is illegal in Oregon, and riders who lane split in Oregon risk getting citations for careless driving or reckless driving if police decide their actions are hazardous.
Some people argue that lane splitting can help reduce traffic congestion and keep motorcyclists safe by allowing them to avoid getting rear-ended, but it can be dangerous because it leaves motorcyclists vulnerable to the unexpected actions of car drivers.
In addition, many car drivers dislike when motorcycles pass between lanes.
Lane Splitting Safety Tips
If motorcyclists choose to split lanes in California, where lane splitting is legal, safety organizations recommend these precautions:
- Only split between the #1 and #2 lanes, not between other lanes.
- Keep your speed below 20 mph faster than surrounding traffic.
- Avoid splitting on highways with speed limits above 40 mph.
- Stay alert and avoid weaving.
- Never split lanes in intersections or cross solid lines.
- Use signals when changing lanes.
- Wear high-visibility protective gear.
By following prudent lane splitting practices, riders can reduce risks if they filter forward during stop-and-go congestion. But it’s unclear if or when Oregon will officially legalize the maneuver. For now, lane splitting remains in a legal gray zone that motorcyclists navigate at their own risk. And if you are involved in an accident with a motorist, make sure you find the right motorcycle accident lawyer.
The Future of Lane Splitting Laws
Some states are passing laws clarifying the rules around lane filtering to improve roadway efficiency and motorcyclist safety. Minnesota brought in a law that allows lane filtering, which comes into effect next year. Lane splitting is now allowed in Colorado, as of April. Arizona legalized lane filtering in 2022.
The American Motorcyclist Association and Motorcycle Safety Foundation advocate for responsible lane splitting guidelines. They recommend standardized laws that permit the practice with restrictions in order to reduce accidents.
As traffic levels rise, there may be increasing public support for legalizing prudent lane splitting in Oregon. But opposition from driver groups could block proposals. Motorcyclists interested in changing the laws can contact their representatives or join advocacy organizations.
For now, riders should not assume lane splitting is legal or tolerated by law enforcement. But clarifying and codifying reasonable rules could make the maneuver safer and more accepted if done responsibly. Motorcyclists should ride cautiously and follow any future changes to Oregon’s lane splitting policies.
