Lane Splitting Is Now Illegal in Utah & Wheelies Are a Crime

The recent updates in motorcycling laws in Utah have made it a compulsion for bikers to avoid lane filtering and wheelies. As per the law, it is now banned and illegal for riders to engage in lane filtering and wheelies. These laws are now in total effect, and anyone not obeying the law will have to face the consequences.

For those who are not familiar with what lane splitting is, let’s have a peek into it. Lane splitting is changing lanes on the road when traffic is moving. Lane filtering is actually dangerous, as riders are at risk of getting hit by a fast-moving vehicle from behind. Rear-end collisions become more common in the case of lane splitting. Riders are at a great risk of more harm and damage in case of rear-end collisions.

Some people confuse lane splitting with lane filtering. Remember! Though the definition may appear to be somewhat similar, both are very different from each other in practice.

Lane Filtering allows riders to move between lanes or change lanes when the traffic is standstill or moving very slowly at the red light. This saves space and time and also avoids rear-end collisions as bikers don’t have to stay in the same lane as heavy vehicles.

The confusion between these two must be clear because most US states allow lane filtering, and not lane splitting.

Utah has been very clear about the dangers of lane splitting. Therefore, it has ensured that no one attempts to change lanes when traffic is moving.

Besides lane splitting, riders are banned from popping up wheelies. It is also considered a crime in Utah. In clear words, the H.B.190 Motorcycle Amendment by the State of Utah states that:

So, if you are found guilty of committing lane splitting or attempting wheelies on highways, you will have to face certain consequences under the law:

• You can lose your motorcycle endorsement.

• Your license can likely be suspended.

• A fine will be imposed/You get a ticket.

• Your bike may be seized.

It is to be noted that Utah doesn’t restrict bike riders from lane filtering. Riders can switch between lanes when deemed necessary to be in a safer spot. It also reduced the wait time and enhanced the flow of traffic, especially when there are both cars and motorbikes on the road.

Lane filtering reduced the road congestion, which is another notable factor when it comes to the increasing number of road accidents. There are studies that show that lane filtering proves to be safer for riders, reducing the risks of fatal injuries in case of crashes and rear-end collisions.

Meanwhile, the lane splitting leaves things to judgment. Drivers may fail to spot a biker who changed lanes and came in front of the car out of nowhere. It also causes a bit of chaos on the road. In the case of lane splitting, a rider may be seen swerving and switching between lanes. Accidents are more likely to happen when riders start riding in the fast-moving, heavy-traffic lanes. No matter how powerful your bike’s engine may be, it cannot outdo the speed and momentum of a car or a large vehicle.

Some riders still believe that, along with lane filtering, lane splitting is good for riders. According to some riders, they are likely to face distracted and drunk drivers on the road. They are among the biggest threats to riders' safety. Also, cases have been reported of the latest autonomous cars' autopilot systems failing to detect a motorbike in front. In such cases, some of these riders believe that lane splitting is required.

At last, most riders favor the recent laws now in effect in Utah, including the banning of lane splitting and wheelies. Riders and other road users believe that the recent laws in Utah will make the riding experience safer for bikers and drivers alike.