Is Lane-Splitting on a Motorcycle Statistically Safe or Dangerous? Why is It Legal?

Back when I resided in California, there was a recurring bills introduced into the State Assembly to legalize lane splitting. Law enforcement officers, like the CHiP, often testified against such bills, despite being exempt from the law. Their concern was understandable; numerous incidents involved them 'scrubbing' motorcyclists off the bumpers of impatient drivers who were too engrossed in their radios and navigation to pay attention to the road.

Is Lane-Splitting Safe?

Evidently, lane splitting can be executed more or less safely. To do it responsibly, one needs to adhere to certain guidelines. At no time should the motorcycle exceed 35 mph, and it should be no more than 10 mph faster than the surrounding traffic. Furthermore, heightened situational awareness is of paramount importance. Avoiding the immediate vicinity of trucks is critical, as well as blending into the traffic flow.

For instance, cars seldom merge into one another, making the space between two cars a relatively safe position. On the other hand, cars often dart into any available space in the faster lane, especially during instances when one lane lags behind the adjacent lane by mere inches. This happens primarily when drivers are focused on overtaking, without considering the potential danger posed to lane-splitting motorcycles. Hence, lane splitting should be done with caution, and it is often recommended to do so when there are no cars 'aligned' with the gap.

Strategies to Stay Safe While Lane-Splitting

To minimize the risk of confrontation with drivers, it is recommended to be as inconspicuous as possible. Some motorists become exasperated in traffic and may take it out on their surroundings. Seeing you as one fewer car clogging up the traffic flow is usually not the case; they may feel unfairly passed by. In such scenarios, drivers might even attempt illegal aggression. However, if you blend into the environment and pass by undetected, the likelihood of such actions is significantly reduced.

The quiet engines of motorcycles are crucial in this regard. Drivers are less likely to notice you until you're already past them. Therefore, avoiding sudden movements and leveraging the relative quietness of the motorcycle can go a long way in ensuring your safety.

The Legal Standing of Lane-Splitting in California

California is the only state that currently permits lane splitting. While there are clear dangers associated with squeezing between trucks and cars while traveling at 40 mph on a motorcycle, the alternative often involves hours of sitting in traffic, waiting for the engine to melt down, and possibly facing the discomfort of the helmet melting too. It is essential to proceed with caution and adhere to the established guidelines.

Overall, while lane splitting presents certain dangers, it can be a practical solution to traffic congestion, provided motorists remain vigilant and adhere to the best practices. As with any form of driving, the safety of all road users must be the primary consideration.