Motorcyclists throughout Minnesota will be able to move through slow traffic a little easier once new riding rights go into effect on July 1.
Effective tomorrow, motorcyclists in Minnesota will be legally allowed to lane split and lane filter when conditions allow for it. The goal of each is to help improve motorcycle safety and traffic flow on congested roads. Let’s take a closer look at what lane splitting and lane filtering means for motorcyclists.
Lane Splitting – Lane splitting is when a motorcyclist splits traffic between two separate lanes. Traffic is moving at the time, but moving rather slowly.
Lane Filtering – Lane filtering is when a motorcyclist splits traffic between two separate lanes. Traffic is effectively stopped at the time.
Both moves are very similar, and in fact the terms are oftentimes used synonymously, but Minnesota defines lane splitting as the act that is performed when traffic is moving, whereas lane filtering occurs when traffic is at a near standstill.
Rules And Regulations For Lane Maneuvering
There are some rules and regulations that have been put in place for motorcyclists looking to maneuver through slow or stopped traffic. According to the updated law:
- For lane splitting, motorcyclists may pass other vehicles only if they are traveling no faster than 25 miles per hour and no more than 15 miles per hour faster than surrounding traffic.
- For lane filtering, motorcyclists may not move through traffic more than 15 miles per hour faster than stopped vehicles.
- Both maneuvers are prohibited in school zones, in work zones with only one available lane, at roundabouts, on freeway or expressway on-ramps or on single lane roads where they would need to pass on the far left or on the road’s shoulder.
The legalization of the driving maneuvers means that Minnesota becomes the easternmost state to legalize lane filtering.
Motorcyclists are advised to use each move with caution, and drivers are being alerted to the legalization of the driving techniques so that they can keep an eye out for motorcyclists in slow or stopped traffic. You may not assume that someone is trying to move past you in slow or stopped traffic, but always check your blind spots and watch for motorcyclists who may legally be looking to move up and help ease congestion.
And as always, if you need help fighting a new or existing traffic ticket in Minnesota, let Avery and the team at Appelman Law Firm be your guide. For more information, or to bring us up to speed on the traffic ticket you’re contesting, reach out to our team today at (952) 224-2277.
