by Zayed Al-Sayyed

Arizona Motorcycle AttorneySeptember 30, 20210 comments

Can Motorcycles Split Lanes in AZ?

With breathtaking scenery in every direction and year-round sunshine, it’s no wonder why Arizona is home to over 180,000 motorcycle drivers. As exciting and freeing as it can be to ride a motorcycle, it can also be dangerous. To protect all drivers on the roads of Arizona, there are many motorcycle laws in place.

The Motor Vehicle Division requires all motorcyclists to pass a vision test, skills test, and written test before obtaining their motorcycle license or Class M endorsement. However, with such a massive amount of information to remember, it can get a little confusing.

Today, our skilled team of motorcycle accident attorneys will answer one of the most popular questions for Arizona motorcyclists: can motorcycles split lanes in AZ? We will discuss what lane splitting is and the legality surrounding it.

What is Lane Splitting?

Lane splitting is a situation that involves a motorcyclist driving between two lanes of traffic heading in the same direction. While the act of lane splitting is illegal in many states, it’s a common act that motorcyclists perform to bypass traffic.

The question of ‘can motorcycles split lanes in AZ’ is a common one, even more so since lane splitting was legalized in the neighboring state of California. Advocates for a change in the law surrounding lane splitting in Arizona argue that legalizing lane splitting could help motorcyclists prevent dangerous situations.

Research has shown that lane splitters were less likely to suffer from serious injuries in motorcycle accidents, specifically to the head or torso. In California, lane splitting was legalized to help keep motorcyclists safe and reduce traffic congestion. While it’s yet to be determined if Arizona will follow suit, for now the law remains as is.

Can Motorcycles Split Lanes in AZ?

While you may have seen motorcycles split lanes in AZ before, it is actually illegal. According to A.R.S. § 28-903, anyone driving a motorcycle is entitled to the full lane, but cannot overtake and pass another vehicle while in the same line. The law also prohibits traveling between adjacent rows or lanes of vehicles.

Additionally, motorcycle riders cannot ride with more than two motorcycles side by side if there is no other lane. However, there is an exception to the rule in the event that law enforcement officials need to ride abreast to perform their duties.

To summarize, motorcycles are expected to drive as cars do. A car physically could not split lanes, so a motorcycle should not either. When riding a motorcycle, it’s important to keep this in mind to avoid accidents.

Top Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Phoenix, AZ

At The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed, our experienced team of motorcycle accident lawyers is dedicated to protecting the rights and freedoms of our clients. We employ an Aggressive Compassionate Representation to act aggressively in our case strategy and compassionately for each of our clients.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident in Phoenix, contact us today to schedule a free consultation with one of our top motorcycle accident attorneys.