A Bill to Legalize Lane Splitting Is in the Works in Oregon

Oregon motorcyclists may soon have a new way to navigate through traffic congestion. A senate bill to make lane splitting legal is making its way through the state legislature. This development has sparked discussions about road safety, traffic flow, and riders’ rights.

It’s well known that motorcycle accidents pose significant safety risks. According to the Oregon Department of Transportation, 5,932 motorcycle riders were killed in 2021. This made up 14 percent of all traffic fatalities in Oregon. This statistic highlights the increased risks motorcyclists face on the roads and it highlights the need to implement effective motorcycle safety measures.

At Johnston Law Firm, we understand that motorcycle legislation can be complex to understand. As experienced motorcycle accident attorneys, we are closely following the development of this bill. To ensure our clients receive the most up-to-date legal advice, we have put together this brief guide on Senate Bill 422.

The Difference Between Lane Splitting and Lane Filtering

Before we explore the proposed bill, let’s take a look at the different terms you should know:

• Lane-splitting refers to motorcycles riding between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic at high speeds
• Lane filtering refers to a motorcycle riding between lanes or through stopped traffic at low speeds
• Lane sharing occurs when two motorcycles ride side by side in the same lane.

States Where Lane Splitting Is Currently Legal

Currently, the ability to split lanes is limited or illegal in most of the United States. That makes this Oregon bill an important development in motorcycle legislation. Several states in the US are considering legalizing lane splitting.

These are the laws on lane-splitting in different states:

• California: This is currently the only state where lane splitting is explicitly legal
• Utah, Arizona, Colorado, and Montana: These states allow lane filtering, which is more restrictive than lane splitting
• Other states: Lane splitting remains illegal in all other states, though some are considering legislation similar to Oregon’s SB 422

Oregon’s potential legalization of lane splitting would make it only the second state to fully embrace this practice. This could potentially influence other states to follow suit.

Lane splitting will be legalized in Colorado

As of August 7, 2024, lane filtering is officially legal in Colorado. Similar to Utah’s approach, Colorado’s new law is quite restrictive. It will allow lane splitting only in stopped traffic or at speeds up to 15 mph.

Hawaii’s alternative to lane splitting

Hawaii offers an alternative to lane filtering called “shoulder surfing.” In designated areas, motorcycle riders can use the shoulder to pass stopped vehicles as long as they maintain a speed of no more than 10 mph. This provides benefits similar to those of lane filtering.

About the Bill – SB 422

Senate Bill 422 (SB 422) is currently under consideration in Oregon. Passed by the Oregon Senate in June 2023, the bill is now awaiting further legislative action. SB 422 has yet to be signed into law. 

If signed into law, SB 422 would allow motorcyclists to engage in lane splitting under specific conditions:

• Traffic must be moving at 10 mph or less
• Motorcyclists can’t travel more than 10 mph faster than surrounding traffic
• The practice would be limited to roads with speed limits of 50 mph or higher

The bill’s progress represents a significant step towards changing Oregon’s motorcycle laws. If passed, it could lead to safer and more efficient travel for motorcyclists by reducing congestion and improving lane flow. However, it is crucial for all road users to stay informed about the final legislation and its implementation details.

What This Means for Oregon Motorcyclists

If SB 422 becomes law, Oregon motorcyclists will need to:

• Familiarize themselves with the conditions for legal lane splitting
• Be cautious when practicing lane splitting, especially in the early stages of implementation
• Be prepared for varied reactions from other road users as they adjust to the new law

Even with lane splitting legalized, motorcyclists would still need to prioritize safety and exercise good judgment on the road.

Is Lane Splitting Safer for Motorcyclists?

The safety concerns of lane splitting are a big part of the debate. Research has provided some interesting insights into the benefits of lane splitting. 

Here are some research findings:

• A University of California Berkeley study found that lane splitting motorcyclists were less likely to suffer head injuries, torso injuries, or fatal injuries compared to non-lane splitting riders
• The study also noted that lane splitting was safest when the speed difference between motorcycles and other vehicles was 15 mph or less
• Some argue that lane splitting reduces the risk of rear-end collisions, which can be particularly dangerous for motorcyclists

It’s important to understand that the safety benefits of lane splitting depend on how it is practiced. The restrictions proposed in SB 422 reflect conditions that research shows are safer for lane splitting. For example, the bill observes the safest driving speeds for motorcyclists.

The possible benefits of lane splitting

One of the primary arguments in favor of lane splitting is its potential to reduce traffic congestion. 

Some people argue that:

• Allowing motorcycles to split lanes can reduce congestion in heavy traffic
• Lane splitting could encourage more people to choose motorcycles, potentially further reducing congestion
• Lane splitting might improve road safety by encouraging motorcyclists to avoid dangerous situations, such as being sandwiched between larger vehicles

Safety concerns regarding lane splitting

Despite potential benefits, there are validsafety concerns about making lane splitting legal:

• Drivers changing lanes might not expect motorcycles between lanes, leading to collisions
• The sudden appearance of lane-splitting motorcycles could startle drivers, causing motor vehicle accidents
• Motorcycles moving between lanes may be less visible to other drivers in a traffic jam
• Lane splitting in tight spaces could leave motorcyclists with fewer options to avoid sudden hazards
• Uneven road surfaces or debris between lanes could pose risks to lane splitting motorcyclists

Addressing these concerns would be crucial if SB 422 becomes law. Educating the public and providing clear guidelines could help reduce these risks.

Johnston Law Firm Is Here to Help Oregon Motorcyclists

At Johnston Law Firm, we specialize in motorcycle accident cases. Our motorcycle accident lawyers stay updated on all legislative changes that may affect our clients. 

If SB 422 passes, you can count on us:

• To explain to our clients their rights and responsibilities under the new lane splitting law
• To represent motorcyclists involved in accidents related to lane splitting
• To help clients navigate any insurance issues that may arise from lane splitting incidents

Our experience with different types of traffic accidents provides us with valuable insight. We understand how changes in traffic laws can affect interactions between the various vehicles on the road.

Learn More From Johnston’s Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Today

SB 422 could change Oregon’s motorcycle traffic laws. As the bill moves through the legislative process, it’s important for motorcyclists and all road users to stay informed about these potential changes.

At Johnston Law Firm, we’re committed to staying at the forefront of these legal developments. Our deep understanding of motorcycle law and commitment to our clients mean we are well-equipped to handle new challenges.

If you need help after an accident or want to understand your rights, we’re here for you. Contact the Johnston Law Firm for a free case review. Our experienced team is ready to guide you through Oregon’s motorcycle law, including any new changes like lane splitting.