Arizona Motorcycle Lane Filtering , aka Lane Splitting is now a trend on our Arizona roads.
“The Grand Canyon State” is the fourth state to allow motorcycle lane filtering. Like all new rules, the motorcycle lane filtering law sparked various opinions. Even though motorists may not like lane filtering, aka splitting, it became legal in Arizona on September 24, 2022.
What is lane filtering for motorcycles? Lane splitting allows motorcycles to pass vehicles in the space between two lanes. It is only legal in states that allow it and under specific conditions.
Lane filtering takes place at intersections with traffic lights. Motorcycles can ride in the space between stopped vehicles to the front of the intersection.
Under the motorcycle lane filtering law (Arizona Revised Statute 28-903.F), riders can cruise between lanes slowly at a maximum speed of 15 mph as long as other vehicles are stopped. Senator Tyler Pace sponsored the bill, clarifying that lane splitting and filtering differ.
This legislation only applies to low-speed lane filtering in specific circumstances, as outlined in the bill language. The legislation was designed to resemble lane filtering legislation enacted in Utah in 2019. Here is more.
Arizona Lane Filtering Laws and Regulations
When motorcycle riders move between lanes of traffic, they are said to be lane filtering. It allows motorcyclists to pass other vehicles when traffic stops, saving time and keeping riders safe.
Former Gov. Doug Ducey signed SB 1273. Arizona, legalizing lane filtering. The aim was to reduce rear-end motorcycle crashes which often occur when a vehicle driver hits a motorcyclist after they are stopped, for example, at a red light. A motorcyclist wishing to filter lanes legally in Arizona must:
- Not exceed 15 mph on the road
- Lane filter only when both lanes of traffic are going in the same direction
- Ensure that the speed limit for the area is not more than 45 mph before filtering
The laws governing lane filtering or splitting in Arizona are strict. Riders are not allowed to overtake or pass in the same lane occupied by the vehicle they are overtaking or to operate the motorcycle between traffic lanes or two adjacent rows of cars, as per ARS § 29-903. It’s only allowed unless the rider is a peace officer on official duty.
A lane-splitting violation in Arizona can result in fines and tickets. A motorcycle rider who causes an accident by lane-splitting or trying to pass another vehicle in the same lane is typically responsible for damages.
It is considered negligence for a motorcycle rider to travel between lanes unless they try to escape a collision or some other danger.
Safety Considerations for Arizona Motorcycle Lane Filtering
When filtering lanes, it is important to keep the following safety considerations in mind:
- Monitor your surroundings and prepare to stop if necessary. Stay alert for other vehicles, especially those changing lanes
- Slow down when lane filtering. In Arizona, lane filtering is allowed at a speed of 15 mph.
- Lane filtering requires you to use your turn signals to inform other drivers of your actions.
- Before passing a driver, make eye contact with them to ensure they see you.
- If a driver doesn’t see you, prepare to stop.
- You should not filter between cars in motion.
- You shouldn’t filter if you don’t have enough space.
- Keep an eye on your surroundings, and always be prepared to react accordingly.
Get More Information About Arizona’s Lane Filtering, aka Splitting Laws
Whether you have questions about Arizona motorcycle traffic laws or were involved in an accident involving lane splitting or lane filtering, we can help. When you suffer a personal injury in Tempe from a motorcycle accident, it can bring about immense financial stress and change your life.
Suffering, pain, unanticipated medical bills, loss of wages, incapacity to work, and prolonged healing can overwhelm the strongest person. It is possible to recover damages from these injuries economically and non-economically if somebody else’s negligence caused these changes.
The Sorenson Law Firm, LLC has recovered compensation for countless Arizona bikers. Contact us today and speak with our attorneys to better understand your legal rights and options.
FAQs
After a lane-splitting accident, can I receive compensation for my damages in Arizona?
The law on lane splitting does not bar you from claiming damages if you were negligent. The comparative fault doctrine in Arizona allows injured plaintiffs to collect compensation even if their negligence caused them harm.
Does Arizona have a high number of motorcycle accidents?
Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) published its most recent motor vehicle crash report in 2021. According to this document, there were 2,594 motorcycle accidents in the state, making up 2.14 percent of all vehicle accidents.
Where do most fatal motorcycle accidents occur in Arizona?
The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) reported that, in 2021, most motorcycle accidents occurred in urban areas (77.49 percent), whereas only 22.51 percent occurred in rural areas.
How many motorcycles are in Arizona?
According to U.S. motorcycle registration estimates, Arizona had 280,071 motorcycles registered in 2021.
Can I get compensation for my motorcycle?
Your motorcycles and other property, such as a helmet or clothes, should be covered for repairs or replacements, as well as pain and suffering.
