Whether you’re an avid motorcyclist or simply ride on the weekends (when weather and road conditions allow), you likely know that Minnesota has legalized lane splitting. Last year, we became one of just a handful of states where being able to move in and out of lanes is allowed.
There are, of course, restrictions in the law. Motorcyclists always need to consider road, traffic and weather conditions before they use this maneuver, which involves moving in and out of traffic lanes in stop-and-go or very slow-moving traffic.
Key elements of the law
Motorcyclists are expected to take care when lane splitting (or lane filtering, which involves stopped traffic, such as at a stop light), both for their own safety and that of motorists. The law also states that:
- Lane splitting is only legal when traffic is moving at 25 miles per hour or less.
- Motorcyclists can only pass vehicles moving in the same direction.
- Motorcyclists cannot travel more than 15 mph above the speed of surrounding traffic when lane splitting.
- Lane splitting is not legal in school zones, work zones with one lane, on highway on-ramps or at “the approach, drive-through, or exit of a roundabout.”
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety cautions riders that it’s “your responsibility to determine if these maneuvers can safely be performed in a given situation” and not to use them “if you cannot do so safely and within the legal speed restrictions.”
Legalizing lane splitting and filtering can ease traffic congestion. More importantly, it can help prevent serious crashes – particularly those caused by drivers who collide into motorcyclists in front of them because they’re distracted or accidentally hit the accelerator.
Drivers can present a danger during these maneuvers
Not all drivers, however, are happy about seeing motorcyclists move ahead of them in a traffic jam when they’re barely moving. Many don’t realize that it’s now legal. Minnesota law enforcement and safety officials have said that it’s better to think of these maneuvers as “lane sharing.” As one noted, “The lane isn’t owned by anyone. It’s shared by everyone.”
Sadly, that doesn’t guarantee that every driver will exercise caution around a motorcyclist who is legally moving through traffic. Drivers who are distracted or not checking their mirrors can also present a serious danger to riders. Anyone who has been injured by a negligent or reckless driver should get experienced legal guidance as soon as possible to protect their right to fair compensation.