Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to establish specific rules for motorcycle lane splitting and filtering in Minnesota. It intends to regulate situations when a motorcycle can legally drive between lanes of traffic, improving safety for both motorcyclists and other road users.

Main Provisions

• Lane Splitting Definition: The bill allows motorcycles to overtake and pass another vehicle in the same traffic lane under limited conditions. This act is known as "lane splitting" or "lane filtering."

• Speed Restrictions: Motorcycles can perform this maneuver only if:

  1. They are traveling at 25 miles per hour or less.
  2. They do not exceed 15 miles per hour more than the speed of other traffic.

• Prohibited Areas for Lane Splitting:

  • Within the approach, drive-through, or exit of a roundabout.
  • In school zones.
  • On freeway or expressway onramps without active traffic control devices when vehicles are queued.

• Conditions for Riding:

  • Motorcyclists must maintain safe seating positions and be able to keep both hands on the handlebars.
  • Motorcycles can ride two abreast in a single traffic lane, provided they fit safely.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• This bill amends existing state motorcycle operation laws by explicitly allowing lane splitting under the specified conditions, which was not previously permitted.
• The bill outlines more detailed guidelines for safe motorcycle seating, passenger regulations, and cargo carrying restrictions.

Relevant Terms

• Motorcycle lane splitting
• Lane filtering
• Minnesota traffic laws
• Motorcycle safety regulations
• Speed restrictions
• Traffic lane rules