CHP Offers Lane Splitting Tips

SAN JOSE, CA -- Making it safer to ride a motorcycle through stop-and-go commands split decisions -- and a split responsibility by the jurisdictions managing the state highways. That's why the California Highway Patrol teamed up with the state Department of Motor Vehicles, Caltrans and the Office of Traffic Safety to come up with the best, life-saving tricks to negotiate the traffic hazards.

The tips include:

• Consider the whole environment such as the width of the lanes, size of the surrounding vehicles and roadway conditions.
• Ride at a reasonable speed as danger increases when the rider speeds up.
• Split between the far left lanes as they're safer than the others with motorists merging on and off the highway.
• Avoid splitting around large vehicles like big rigs and motor homes.
• Do not ride on the shoulder as it is not permitted.
• Make yourself visible such as staying out of a motorist's blind spot.
• Allow drivers to see you by wearing bright or reflective gear and clothing while using high beams during the daylight hours.

Motorists can do their part by noting their blinds spots thoroughly and often checking their mirrors.

"Although lane splitting is legal in California, motorcyclists are encouraged to exercise extreme caution when traveling between lanes of stopped or slow-moving traffic," CHP Commissioner Warren Stanley said. "Every rider has the ultimate responsibility for their own decision making and safety."

More information may be obtained through https://www.chp.ca.gov/program.

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