Lane splitting, which involves riding between lanes of traffic, can be legal and common practice in some jurisdictions, while it is illegal in others. If lane splitting is legal in your area, here are some tips to help you do it safely and increase your visibility to other drivers:
Be Aware of Traffic Conditions: Before attempting to split lanes, carefully assess the traffic situation. Look for any potential hazards, such as cars changing lanes, opening doors, or sudden lane shifts. Avoid lane splitting in heavy traffic, at high speeds, or in areas with limited visibility.
Use Your Signals: Just like when changing lanes, use your motorcycle's turn signals to indicate your intentions to other drivers. This helps alert them to your presence and your intended path of travel.
Ride at a Safe Speed: Maintain a safe and controlled speed while lane splitting. Riding significantly faster than the surrounding traffic can startle drivers and reduce their ability to react to your presence. Adhere to the speed limits and flow of traffic, adjusting your speed accordingly.
Be Predictable: Maintain a consistent and predictable path while lane splitting. Avoid sudden movements or erratic behavior that can surprise other drivers. Maintain a steady line and avoid weaving between lanes excessively.
Position Yourself Wisely: Choose the safest and most visible position within the lane. Typically, it's best to ride in the left portion of the lane, as drivers are conditioned to look for overtaking vehicles in that position. However, this may vary depending on the specific traffic situation and road conditions. Stay out of blind spots and position yourself where you are most visible to surrounding drivers.
Use Headlights and High-Visibility Gear: Keep your motorcycle's headlights on at all times, even during the daytime. This improves your visibility to other motorists. Additionally, wear brightly colored or reflective gear to increase your visibility further.
Anticipate and React to Traffic: Stay alert and anticipate the movements of other vehicles. Watch for any signs that a driver might change lanes or make sudden maneuvers. Be prepared to slow down, stop, or adjust your position accordingly to avoid potential accidents.
Stay Calm and Patient: Some drivers may not be accustomed to motorcycles splitting lanes or may not expect it. Stay calm and patient, and avoid confrontations with other motorists. Your safety is the top priority.
Remember to always comply with local traffic laws and regulations regarding lane splitting. If lane splitting is illegal in your jurisdiction, it is best to refrain from doing it to avoid legal consequences and promote road safety.