What Is Lane-Splitting?

Lane-splitting, sometimes called “white-lining,” refers to the practice of a motorcyclist riding on the road lines between lanes, including lanes of traffic moving in the same direction or in between opposing directions of traffic. Lane-splitting turns road lines into temporary lanes for motorcycles.

Does Georgia Law Allow Lane-Splitting?

Georgia outlaws the practice of lane-splitting. Currently, only California permits motorcycle riders to engage in lane-splitting. Although other states have considered proposals to legalize lane-splitting over the years, efforts have failed as motorcycle safety advocates argue that lane-splitting represents a dangerous practice for motorcycle riders. That is because other drivers may change lanes or turn into the path of a lane-splitting motorcycle.

What Is Lane-Filtering and Is It Legal in GA?

Lane-filtering refers to the practice of a motorcycle rider slowing moving down a row of slowly moving or stopped vehicles, usually at a traffic-light-controlled intersection so that the motorcycle operator can get to the front of the line. That allows the motorcycle rider to take off when the light turns green without the threat of being sandwiched by two motor vehicles.

What Is the Difference between Lane-Splitting and Lane-Filtering?

Although the terms lane-splitting and lane-filtering are sometimes used interchangeably or confused with one another, proponents of lane-splitting and lane-filtering recognize essential differences between the two practices. Most importantly, lane-splitting and lane-filtering take place at different traffic speeds and in different scenarios.