Is Lane Splitting Legal in Arizona?

Can Motorcycles Split Lanes in Arizona?

Arizona motorcycle riders who have ever wondered, “Is lane splitting legal in Arizona?” now have a definitive answer. Although some motorists may not like the idea, lane filtering is legal in the state as of September 24th, 2022. Former Governor Greg Ducey signed SB 1273 into law, making lane filtering, or lane splitting, legal in Arizona.

Because lane filtering is now legal in the Grand Canyon State, motorists who cause motorcycle accidents because they failed to look out for lane filtering may be held liable for those accidents. If you are a motorcycle rider who was injured in a lane splitting accident, contact the experienced Phoenix motorcycle accident attorneys at Ybarra Maldonado Law Group.

To schedule a free consultation about your case, please call our office at 602-910-4040 today.

What Is Lane Splitting?

Lane splitting is the practice of riding a bicycle or motorcycle between rows of slow-moving or stopped traffic moving in the same direction. Motorcyclists and bicyclists commonly perform this maneuver to navigate through traffic jams more efficiently. Lane splitting is a subject of much debate regarding its safety and legality, which varies widely from place to place.

Proponents of lane splitting argue that it can reduce traffic congestion, lower the risk of rear-end collisions for motorcyclists, and help reduce rider exposure to heat exhaustion during hot weather.

Critics, however, raise concerns about the potential for increased accidents due to close proximity to moving vehicles, the sudden appearance of motorcycles that may startle drivers, and the difficulty in legislating and enforcing safe practices.

Lane Filtering vs Lane Splitting

Lane splitting involves riding between lanes of moving traffic. This means the motorcycle or bicycle moves along the lines separating lanes, passing cars that are typically moving in the same direction but at a slower pace.

Lane splitting is often seen in heavy traffic situations where motorcyclists use this technique to maneuver through traffic jams more efficiently. The practice of lane splitting can be controversial and is not legal in all jurisdictions due to concerns over safety and the unpredictability it introduces to traffic flow.

So, how does lane filtering work? Lane filtering refers to the practice of motorcycles or bicycles moving between lanes to reach the front of stopped vehicles at traffic lights or in congested traffic where vehicles are not moving. Filtering is typically done at lower speeds and when traffic is slow-moving or completely stopped.

Many riders lane filter to safely move to the front of traffic queues, reducing their overall travel time and potentially decreasing congestion when the traffic light turns green.

Lane Sharing vs Lane Splitting

Lane sharing can have a couple of different interpretations, but it generally involves two vehicles occupying the same lane side by side. In some contexts, lane sharing is used synonymously with lane splitting, especially when discussing motorcycles navigating between lanes of traffic.

However, a more precise definition of lane sharing refers to situations where two motorcycles ride next to each other within the same lane or when a motorcycle and a bicycle, or any smaller vehicles, share a lane designated for one vehicle, under circumstances where it is safe and legal to do so.

Where Is Lane Splitting Legal in 2024?

Motorcycle lane filtering is only explicitly legal in a handful of states. As of April 2024, the following states have laws specifically permitting lane filtering or lane splitting.

• California
• Utah
• Montana
• Virginia
• Idaho
• Arizona
• Texas
• Mississippi
• Virginia

There are also several states where the practice of lane splitting is not explicitly illegal. These states are as follows.

• Missouri
• Arkansas
• Kentucky
• West Virginia
• Ohio
• North Carolina
• New Jersey
• Florida
• Delaware

Can You Lane Split in Arizona?

Yes. The new law allowing motorcycle riders to lane filter was signed by Former Governor Doug Ducey. The goal of these new lane filtering laws was to reduce the number of rear-end motorcycle accidents, such as those occurring at traffic lights. However, there are still certain requirements that motorcycle riders must meet in order to lane filter safely and legally.

Lane Splitting Arizona Laws and Regulations

Motorcycle riders must adhere to the new lane splitting law. This new law has certain requirements that riders must meet. These requirements are as follows.

• Check that the posted speed limit does not exceed 45 mph.
• Do not exceed 15 mph while lane filtering.
• Lane filter only if both lanes of traffic are traveling in the same direction.

Is It Legal for Motorcycles to Split Lanes in Arizona?

Yes. It is legal for motorcycles to split lanes in Arizona. A motorcycle rider may lane filter between two cars traveling in the same direction in either slowed or stopped traffic. As long as these riders remain vigilant about other drivers on the road, they can safely engage in lane filtering.

How to Stay Safe While Lane Filtering in Arizona

Since the new lane filtering law was passed, more and more motorcyclists have taken up the practice. However, some individuals still question the safety of it. Motorcycle riders can enhance their safety while lane filtering or lane splitting by adhering to a set of best practices and safety tips.

• Wear protective gear: Always wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, gloves, boots, and high-visibility clothing.
• Ride at a safe speed: Maintain a speed that is only slightly faster than the surrounding traffic when lane splitting or filtering.
• Be visible: Use your headlights and consider wearing reflective or brightly colored clothing to make yourself more visible to other drivers.
• Avoid blind spots: Stay out of drivers’ blind spots as much as possible. Approach vehicles with caution and assume that you have not been seen.
• Practice defensive riding: Assume that other drivers might not see you and plan escape routes in case you need to avoid a collision.

Contact a Phoenix Motorcycle Accident Lawyer at Ybarra Maldonado Law Group

While lane splitting remains a topic of debate in many states across the U.S., including Arizona, it’s crucial for motorcyclists to understand the legal landscape and prioritize their safety on the road. As a leading Arizona law firm, Ybarra Maldonado Law Group is committed to advocating for the rights of motorcyclists who have been injured in accidents.

Our experienced team understands the complexities of Arizona’s traffic laws and is here to provide knowledgeable guidance and support to those in need. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Arizona, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a free consultation. Your safety and well-being are our top priorities. Contact one of our Phoenix personal injury lawyers today.