Lane splitting, the practice of motorcyclists riding between lanes of slow or stopped traffic, has long been a contentious issue in the US. Minnesota recently joined a small but growing number of states that permit this practice.
Minnesota is now the 6th state to legalize lane splitting, a significant change for both motorcyclists and other drivers.
Lane splitting, where a motorcyclist overtakes other vehicles in the same direction by riding between lanes, typically occurs in congested traffic or at stoplights. This maneuver is illegal in most US states.
This new freedom for motorcyclists comes with important provisions. For instance, if traffic is moving faster than 40 km/h, riders must stay within their lane, like any other vehicle. When traffic slows below 40 km/h, they can split lanes, but not exceeding 40 km/h. If traffic slows to 16 km/h or less, motorcyclists must not exceed traffic speed by more than 24 km/h.
Essentially, lane splitting is permitted when traffic is moving slower than 40 km/h, but riders must maintain a speed reasonably close to the flow of traffic.
"This is a new concept for many people in Minnesota. Car drivers and motorcyclists need to be respectful and remember that the road is for all of us", said Mike Hanson, director of the Office of Traffic Safety.
"Both motorcyclists and drivers need to be aware of the new law so they don't think someone is doing something wrong, get angry on the road, and try to cut off the motorcycle", Aaron Larson, lead instructor of the motorcycle safety program at Chippewa Valley Technical College, told WEAU13 News.
This new law means motorcyclists may reach their destinations slightly faster. They can filter to the front at red lights (stopping at the line, not running the light) and split lanes in slow traffic, while maintaining a reasonable speed.
However, lane splitting remains prohibited in certain areas, such as roundabouts, school zones, highway on-ramps, and single-lane construction zones.
Jay Bock, motorcycle safety administrator of the Minnesota Motorcycle Safety Center (MMSC), stated, "Lane splitting is now legal, but it is not required, and it’s not always the best option. Motorcyclists should carefully consider if and when it can be done safely".
Before Minnesota, California, Arizona, Utah, Montana, and Colorado had already legalized lane splitting for motorcycles. These states also have specific conditions under which lane splitting is permissible.
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