
On Friday, California became the first state to legalize lane-splitting. This means that motorcyclists will soon be able to legally drive between lanes to get through traffic.
Before the bill, there was no state law written on the subject. It was a gray area; lane-splitting was neither banned nor allowed by official law.
In 2013, CHP posted guidelines for motorcyclists to practice lane-splitting in a safe manner. However, the information was later removed because it could have been misinterpreted as law.
After the removal of the guidelines, new law was needed to set specific rules and regulations in place. According to LA Times, Assemblyman Tom Lackey (R-Palmdale) co-wrote the bill and called it a “groundbreaking step.” Governor Jerry Brown signed Assembly Bill 51 which clearly defines the rules set forth by the California Highway Patrol.
The bill examines the practice of lane-splitting, and explains safety precautions for motorcyclists and surrounding vehicles. The law also specifies that police can develop educational programs to increase motorist safety.
However, the bill has ignited some controversy among drivers.
The Orange County Register reported that “the practice often sparks tension between motorcyclists who say driving between vehicles keeps them out of danger and helps lessen congestion, and some motorists who say it is reckless and burdens them to be on guard.”
CHP claims that the law has many benefits, including a reduction of traffic and improved safety.
Fran Clader, a spokeswoman for the California Highway Patrol in Sacramento explained,
“Our primary concern is safety. We want to do whatever we can to keep motorcyclists and motorists safe. The crux of all this is all motorists need to share the road.”
But others oppose the new law. One trucker explained,
“I drive a big, tall truck and there’s not a lot of room around it in the lanes. Now I’m afraid that I might really hit someone if there isn’t much room between us.”
The law will go into effect on January 1st, 2017.