IIAV Representation and Advocacy Never Ends ... What’s Your Opinion?
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Recently, IIAV was asked by the Virginia DMV to participate in a study of motorcycle safety as it relates to lane filtering under certain conditions, and the impact of such actions on the safety of motorists in the Commonwealth. The study is the result of legislation introduced during the 2020 session — HB 1236 — on this topic and a request by the Senate Transportation Committee Chairman, Dave Marsden (D-37th).
Not being a motorcyclist myself and not familiar with the term "lane filtering," I went to YouTube and searched for videos on the subject. Oh my! Okay, first — despite what the legislation says — I believe we’ll need to determine whether we’re talking about lane “filtering” or “splitting” ... neither of which I’m too exited about. When asked, the IIAV Legislative Committee has thus far unanimously indicated opposition to such a provision, citing anecdotal examples of abusive driving both in the U.S. and Europe. I believe we’ll also need to keep in mind that the study charge is to discuss the safety of “motorists,” not just motorcyclists.
Interestingly enough, there is very, very little research on this question. And in fact, the only study that I have seen that supports lane filtering/splitting has actually indicated that it is safe only when traffic is stopped or moving very slowly. Accident frequency and severity related to this issue is apparently not tracked by the insurance companies that I have contacted.
So, what’s your call? What issues do you see in regard to lane filtering by motorcyclists (or lane splitting)? What’s your recommendation for IIAV’s position? The stakeholder group will be meeting the later part of May, so please let me hear from you. Reach me at rbradshaw@iiav.com
Bob Bradshaw
IIAV President & CEO
