In a bid to enhance road safety and potentially prevent accidents, Arizona Governor Doug Ducey recently signed SB 1273 into law, allowing motorcyclists in Phoenix, AZ, to navigate through traffic more efficiently. This law permits motorcycle riders to travel along the side of a car that is stationary in the same lane also known as lane splitting. Lane splitting is legal provided that certain conditions are met. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the details of this new law, its implications for motorcyclists, and its potential impact on road safety in Phoenix.
Understanding SB 1273: The Lane Splitting Law
SB 1273, the newly enacted lane splitting law in Phoenix, introduces a set of guidelines for motorcyclists looking to pass a stopped car within the same lane. Here are the key provisions of the law:
- Speed Limit: Lane splitting is only legal when the speed limit for the street is 45 miles per hour or slower.
- Maximum Speed: Motorcyclists engaging in lane splitting cannot exceed a speed of 15 miles per hour.
- Safety Concerns: The law aims to prevent accidents by allowing motorcyclists to move to the front of the line at a stoplight. This way, they avoid being sandwiched between two cars, reducing the risk of rear-end collisions.
- Effective Date: SB 1273 will go into effect 90 days after the conclusion of this year’s legislative session.
It’s essential to differentiate between the newly legalized lane filtering and the more common concept of lane splitting. Lane splitting typically involves motorcycles weaving between rows of cars that are moving at regular speeds. In contrast, the lane splitting law allows motorcyclists to advance to the front of the line at a red light, ensuring they are not trapped between vehicles. This distinction is crucial for a clear understanding of the law’s intent.
The Safety Perspective of Lane Splitting
Motorcycle enthusiasts and safety advocates believe that SB 1273 can make a significant difference on the road. Chris Woodard, a seasoned motorcyclist with over 20 years of experience, underscores the importance of the law in preventing accidents.
“Most people don’t gauge the distance for stopping speed,” Woodard explains. “By the time they do realize, unfortunately, the motorcycle is between them and the next vehicle, and that’s where accidents happen.”
Instructors at the Team Arizona Motorcycle Training Center in Gilbert stress the significance of rider education, but they acknowledge that it’s not always sufficient. Bill Seltzer, the Marketing Director, expresses optimism that the new law will help reduce the number of car-motorcycle collisions.
“I think the intent is to allow motorcyclists to get out ahead of traffic because we are stuck in a pack of cars,” Seltzer says. “It’s easy for us to get lost because we are far less visible than other motorists around us.”
Legislative Support and Passage
SB 1273, sponsored by Tyler Pace, a Republican from Mesa, enjoyed strong support in the legislative process. It passed the Senate with an overwhelming 29-0 vote in February and secured a favorable vote of 54-4 in the House just last week. The bipartisan support for this lane splitting law underscores the importance of improving motorcyclist safety and reducing accidents on Phoenix roads.
Conclusion
The new lane splitting law, SB 1273, represents a significant step toward enhancing road safety in Phoenix, AZ. By allowing motorcyclists to navigate through stopped traffic and reach the front of the line at stoplights, the law aims to reduce the risks of rear-end collisions and accidents involving motorcycles. As we await its implementation, it’s essential for both motorcyclists and other road users to familiarize themselves with the law’s provisions, promoting safer and more responsible road behavior. This initiative reflects the commitment of Arizona’s legislators to prioritize the safety of all road users and reduce accidents in our communities.
Source: 3TV/CBS 5