In a confronting video shared to Reddit, a motorcyclist can be seen surviving what could have been a fatal collision. Was he lucky? No, he was experienced in lane splitting, also known as lane filtering, the practice of riding between lanes of (usually) slow-moving or stationary traffic.
Safety Benefits of Lane-Splitting
Contrary to popular belief, lane-splitting can enhance safety when done correctly. A study by UC Berkeley found that motorcyclists who lane-split in heavy traffic are significantly less likely to be struck from behind by other motorists. Additionally, riders who lane-split were found to be:
- 45% less likely to suffer head injuries
- 21% less likely to suffer neck injuries
- 32% less likely to suffer torso injuries
- 12% less likely to suffer arm or leg injuries
- 55% less likely to sustain fatal injuries
These statistics highlight that lane-splitting, when performed at safe speeds and with caution, can reduce the risk of severe injuries and fatalities.
Other Benefits of Lane-Splitting
- Time Efficiency: Lane-splitting enables motorcyclists to move through traffic more quickly, reducing commute times significantly.
- Reduced Congestion: By not occupying a full lane, motorcycles help alleviate traffic congestion for all road users.
- Lower Emissions: Shorter travel times mean less idling, which contributes to lower emissions and a smaller environmental footprint.
So, despite many drivers’ annoyance that motorcyclists and getting past them, it’s actually to the benefit of everyone, especially the safety of the rider.
Legal Landscape
The legality of lane-splitting varies widely. In the UK, it is permitted and even mentioned in the highway code, which advises drivers to be aware of motorcyclists filtering through traffic. In contrast, many US states prohibit the practice, although California is a notable exception where lane-splitting is explicitly allowed and regulated.
In Australia, lane-splitting (or lane filtering) is legal in all states and territories under specific conditions:
- Victoria: Legal for riders on open licenses traveling up to 30 km/h.
- New South Wales: Legal for riders on full licenses traveling up to 30 km/h.
- Queensland: Legal for riders on full licenses traveling up to 30 km/h.
- Tasmania: Legal for riders on open licenses traveling up to 30 km/h.
- South Australia: Legal for R or R-date license holders traveling up to 30 km/h.
- Western Australia: Legal for P-plate or full license holders traveling up to 30 km/h.
- Northern Territory: Legal for unrestricted, full, or open license holders traveling up to 30 km/h.
- Australian Capital Territory: Legal while undergoing an extended trial at time of writing.
It’s important to note that lane filtering is a specific type of lane-splitting that occurs when traffic is stopped or moving very slowly, allowing motorcyclists to navigate through stationary vehicles.
