Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of the bill is to establish specific rules regarding lane splitting and filtering for motorcycles in Minnesota. This involves specifying conditions under which motorcycles can pass between lanes of traffic, a practice that is not currently standardized in Minnesota traffic laws.

Main Provisions

• Lane Splitting Restrictions: The bill specifies that motorcycles are generally prohibited from operating between lanes of moving or stationary vehicles, effectively limiting lane splitting.

• Exceptions to Prohibition: Motorcycles can overtake and pass another vehicle within the same lane if they:

  • Do not exceed a speed of 25 miles per hour.
  • Travel no more than 15 miles per hour faster than the flow of traffic.

• Traffic Lane Exclusions: Lane splitting and filtering are not permitted in:

  • Roundabout approaches and exits.
  • School zones.
  • Onramps to freeways or expressways where vehicles are queued.

• Motorcycle Rights in Traffic Lanes: Motorcyclists are entitled to the full use of a traffic lane, and no vehicle may infringe upon their right to this space.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

This bill amends existing traffic laws by outlining and permitting limited lane splitting under certain conditions, which is not currently defined or allowed in most traffic situations in Minnesota.

Relevant Terms

motorcycles, lane splitting, lane filtering, traffic lanes, speed limits, roundabouts, school zones, freeway ramps, overtaking, traffic laws, road safety.