Lane-Splitting Law Being Considered in Utah
Progressive New Proposal Could Open Up Riding Options for Utah Bikers
Utah H.O.G. riders and other motorcyclists may soon see their riding options widened in the state now that a new pro-lane-splitting bill is on the ballot. HB410 seeks to legally allow motorcyclists to pass vehicles that are in the same lane and heading in the same direction. Initially sponsored by Rep. Gage Froerer, R-Huntsville, the proposed bill is similar to the lane-splitting law currently in effect in California.
Utah’s Deseret News reports that HB410 was presented to the House Transportation Committee easier this week, when state lawmakers voted 7-2 to advance the bill for further consideration
“The primary problem with getting lane splitting passed in states is that non-motorcyclists think that it is dangerous,” said local motorcyclist Dave Moss to Deseret News. “Motorcycles are seven times more likely to be hit while stopped, compared to crashing while lane splitting.”
The bill’s proposal is certainly good news to riders, but there is some bad news, too. The bill needs to be approved by both the House and Senate, but with the Legislature concluding on March 9, there is concern that there is not enough time for it to garner the attention it needs.
‘The primary problem with getting lane splitting passed in states is that non-motorcyclists think that it is dangerous.’
Also, despite Moss’ pro-lane-splitting pitch that was backed up with facts, at least one lawmaker is nonplussed by lane-splitting.
“I have driven on L.A. freeways, and it freaks me out,” Rep. Robert Spendlove, R-Sandy, told his constituents.
Nevertheless, the majority of politicians at the meeting agreed that the lane-splitting proposal is “worthy of some (further) discussion on the floor.”
