BMWMCCWA

Dear All,

This has been weighting on my mind for a long time now, just never found the right time or occasion to bring it up. With the forum up and running, I thought I might ask your views;

Here's my question; Is it illegal (a traffic offense) to split and filter lanes in W.A.? I noticed all bikers won't do it if there is a patrol car or bike in the vicinity. Makes good sense not to give the cops a reason to book us.

A lady constable had this to say (but it has been 2 years ago);
Bikes are allowed to filter and split lanes
Bikes have to signal when switching lanes
Do not cross the solid white line between the lanesat an intersection
Do not stop the bike on the above said white line at an intersection or traffic stop (light or other)

I have since heard several differing views from other coppers and drivers, but the general consensus of bikers is that they just don't know.

Given that cops are all out to give us tickets while our homes and offices are being ransacked, I suppose it would be wise to be safe then sorry! Thanks guys!

Here's some replies I received (without prejudice, I have removed the author's identity);

One thing that I have heard is that if you cross the solid white line between the lanesat an intersection, you can be fined. (Solid white means "Don't Cross")

Also, if you 'waver' while splitting lanes, you can be liable for $100 fine each time you cross the white line.
Like most things, "It is only illegal if you get caught"

One thing to keep in mind is that a lot of 'Car-Jockeys' resent that we can slip past them at times, and will sometimes swerve to make things 'difficult' for you.

Ride Safely
Cheers

Another reply I received;

Only my opinion.....

Because bikes are mostly air-cooled, it is sensible to ensure constant air flow and not to sit in traffic. I believe the laws allow lane splitting, but there was recent press discussion about turning this around. On the air cooling thing.....my Porsche is air cooled too, but I can't lane split, apart from the fact it won't fit!!!!

Anyway, I never do it because you are just making some drivers nervous. I also recently saw a guy on a bike get in between two cars and stall his bike....a recipe for disaster..

My new GS is generally too wide anyways, but I never entertain the idea as a personal choice. You guys on pocket-rockets have different views though....

One thing to keep in mind is that a lot of 'Car-Jockeys' resent that we can slip past them at times, and will sometimes swerve to make things 'difficult' for you.

That is so true! Now, where is the PUBLIC EDUCATION on all this? There seems to be no public awareness programs in place.

According to the Police Commissioner (interviewed on ABC720 on Monday 14th April) there is nothing in the WA road rules preventing motorbikes lane splitting.
He also admitted that the ability of bike riders to pass between traffic is probably an attraction for some riders to commute by motorbike.
He said that depending on how you do it, you could possibly get done for careless riding and strictly speaking you must indicate whenever you change lanes.

I personally don't do it except sometimes when traffic is stationary, I believe it's too risky when traffic is moving, no matter how slowly.

If you are going to do it, be considerate of other road users and be aware of the risks involved.

pete