The Art and Science of Splitting By Denny Kobza

References: Safety implications of lane-splitting among California motorcyclists involved in collisions By Thomas Rice, MPH, PhD and Lara Troszak

Research Epidemiologist, Safe Transportation Research & Education Center, University of California Berkeley

and

Motorcycle Lane-Share study among Motorcyclist and Drivers 2014 and comparison to 2012 and 2013

by Ewald and Wasserman

The following are my observations and analysis of Lane Sharing. I am an avid lifelong motorcyclist. I am the person who proposed to the California Safety Committee that we educate the public on . I attended and helped organize the first Lane Sharing Summit where 25 experts came together to establish basic recommendations to bring back to the Team. These recommendations would later be submitted to the CHP to establish their Guidelines. The guidelines, like others by the CHP and DMV, are not meant to be law. They are intended to be suggestions, similar to yellow warning signs that are advisory in nature and suggest a safe speed for the conditions.

Current Law: The practice of lane splitting is legal and there are no speed limits assigned to the practice. There are current laws in place that allow the CHP to manage the practice. Speeding and Reckless driving are among many tools that the CHP can expertly use to monitor motorcyclists and drivers. I understand that Lane Splitting may scare or startle the general driving public. My hope is that with additional education, the startled feeling will decrease as drivers become more aware of motorcyclists.

The practice of Lane Splitting allows for the better flow of , and when done correctly, it can increase safety for motorcyclist significantly. It is my opinion, that with additional public outreach it will gain acceptance by drivers and make the roadway better for everyone. As with most things, it may take time for people to accept the practice. It is my opinion that education is the key to acceptance. Getting this education into the Drivers Training System will make an entire generation of drivers aware of Lane Splitting and its benefits. Lane Splitting reduces congestion for everyone. The Facts: Thanks to Dr. Tom Rice’s work, the facts are in. When applying a 15 MPH speed differential, the Lane Splitting motorcyclist is safer than the motorcyclist sitting in traffic. That applies to higher speeds. However, to make it safer, you still you have to have to manage two different skill sets: Mental awareness/anticipation and motorcycle control.

The Science: Injuries become more severe with higher speeds. This is a simple fact of momentum. If you hit a wall going 5 MPH you will get one injury and if you hit it going 50 MPH the injury will be more severe. It is the sudden deceleration that causes catastrophic injuries. Motorcyclists have to be aware that the faster they ride, the more likely a crash will cause a serious injury. You can fall off a motorcycle at significant speed and if wearing proper gear, slide to a stop without a serious injury. The likelihood of being able to slide to a stop on a freeway is not great. The chance of being hit or run over is high as well. Once on the ground you are depending on luck and the skill of your fellow motorist to keep you from serious injury. Avoiding a collision is where the Art comes in. Lane Splitting is a learned skill set, there is no doubt about it.

The Art: There are many skills required to safely Lane Split safely and the tips below are just portion of them. Mental awareness is THE MOST IMPORTANT FACTOR in lane sharing safely. You can wheelie all day, brake like a Professional racer and be a lousy lane sharer. DO NOT assume, because you have good motorcycle control, that you are capable of lane sharing safely. It helps of course, but it means little in reality if you are an over confident ass.

Lane sharing is much more than just math. It is a process, an art form in ways. Like water pushing through sand looking for the path of least resistance, a lane sharing motorcyclist must do the same. We must have a heightened awareness for our own safety. Things can change quickly and it is a very dynamic situation. The nuances of the driver’s “tells” are great indicators to a lane sharing motorcyclist. These nuances need to be learned and we try to share those on my website to educate riders on how the mental skills are just as or more important than the physical ones.

“A superior rider uses superior judgment to avoid situations that require superior skill” (1).

This judgment includes:

 Scanning the drivers mirrors for their eyes – are they seeing you?  Watching their heads bob up and down is a sign of a texting driver.  Eyes down identifies if they on the phone.  Are they drifting in their lane?  Are they moving towards the edge of their lane indicating a merge / lane change?  Are they coming from several over looking to get into the commuter lane?  Are they grasping the wheel as if they intend to execute a turn?  Is the front wheel of their vehicle turned toward the motorcyclist and their eyes in the mirror looking to make a mad dash merge?  If it is dark then ½ of the above cannot be applied so the danger is compounded. Texting while riding: Well, we don’t really text while riding. The superior rider is on high alert for incoming threats, the condition of the roadway, and a hundred other variables that surround them during a ride through heavy traffic. I am sure however, you have seen the inattentive driver looking down at their phone. When looking downwards, their eyelids cover enough of the eye to obscure forward vision almost completely. Now let’s apply that to a motorcyclist having to check his speedometer and you can see why a speed limit is potentially dangerous.

Due to the angle of the head and the speedometer you end up with pretty much the exact same thing. Now think about that. You are riding a motorcycle in heavy traffic with two ton metal boxes in front and behind and your decision to lane share to a safer environment now requires you to take your eyes off the road. This is one of the main reasons I am not a supporter of a speed limit while lane sharing. Most motorcyclists will self-govern their speed, as their safety is 100% on them and they know it. As indicated in the report by Dr. Rice the speed differential is the real key to maintaining rider safety when sharing the lane. The study says 10 to 15 MPH and I agree that is a good number for us to use.

A 15 MPH differential is easy to feel and quite intuitive. Having a speed limit of say 30 MPH in traffic is not that intuitive to grasp. What is worse is the newer rider being unfamiliar with riding in heavy traffic and taking their eyes off the road to look down at his speedometer. This can be very dangerous. Any time your eyes are not up and scanning is precious time where things can start to happen and your reaction time to it is now increased.

Every time I see a texting/email reading/phone using driver, I do my best to create distance between us. I definitely do not want them behind me. The problem of cell phone use is pervasive and is getting worse. At some point these inattentive drivers should be treated like DUI drivers when in an accident. They are consciously putting others at risk for their own benefit just like a drunk. It may not feel that way to drivers that partake in it, but it does to experienced riders. There are situations where “not” lane sharing at higher speeds leaves a rider in a dangerous situation. There are plenty of aggressive drivers on the road who will tailgate a rider at 50 MPH leaving that rider at risk. Choosing to protect yourself by finding a safer gap is what I choose to do.

The best time to share past vehicles at any time is when they are side by side. If there is a gap available for a vehicle to make a lane change then you have to be fully ready for that vehicle to execute that lane change. At low speed you can anticipate a driver not looking before they change lanes and that increases the danger to you the rider. At higher speeds the drivers become likely to need to change lanes and more likely to check and signal first. However that does not take into account the very aggressive drivers who abruptly and rapidly move through traffic with little regard for anyone’s safety. The good news is those drivers are rare and fairly easy to spot, as they change lanes frequently looking to gain a spot or two. When sharing at higher speeds the less time in between vehicles the better. I roll to the tail of the vehicles and then use a quick acceleration to clear myself from the two vehicles. This is not about using a higher delta, but rather using the superior acceleration of the motorcycle to quickly move to the safer gap.

The data shows clearly that the speed differential is more important in injuries than the speed of the splitting itself. This is clear in Dr. Rice’s study. The most dangerous injury for a motorcyclist is head/brain injuries. The likelihood of this type of injury for lane sharer is less than for those motorcyclists sitting in traffic.

We simply are much less likely to die when lane sharing compared to those sitting in traffic. That statistic alone is worth learning to apply the practice.

Lane sharing tips

Note: These include some of the original Guidelines that the CHP issued and I helped write at the very first Motorcycle Safety Lane Sharing Summit.

The term lane sharing, sometimes known as lane splitting, filtering or white-lining, refers to the process of a motorcyclist riding between lanes of stopped or slower moving traffic. Example: Moving between lanes of vehicles stopped at a traffic light.

Skilled motorcyclists should consider these general guidelines if choosing to lane share. Newer riders should consider that Lane Splitting requires a high degree of mental and physical skill. The amount of experience you have plays greatly into applying the practice as safely as possible.

1. Speed:  Travel at a speed that is no more than 15 MPH faster than other traffic – danger increases at higher speed differentials.  The greater the speed differential, the less time and space a rider has to identify and react to a hazard.  A speed differential of 15 MPH or less allows an alert, competent rider more time and space to identify and react to most dangerous situations that can occur.  For a new rider learning how to lane share It is typically not advisable to lane share when traffic flow is going 30 mph or faster --- danger of greater injury from a crash increases as overall speed increases. However very experienced riders can share between cars specifically to get to a safer gap.  Do not linger between cars.  At just 20 mph, in the 1 or 2 seconds it takes a rider to identify a hazard, that rider will travel approximately 30 to 60 feet before even starting to take evasive action. Actual reaction (braking or swerving) will take additional time and distance.  Braking and stopping distances vary greatly based on a multitude of factors (rider skill, type and condition of the motorcycle, and environment).

2. Where to share:  Typically, it is safer to share between the #1 and #2 lanes than between other lanes.  Other road users are more accustomed to sharing between the #1 and #2 (furthest left) lanes.  Avoid sharing in lanes near freeway on-ramps and exits. HOV entry/exit points. When HOV access is limited, expect lane changes where it opens up.  Convergence/divergence where freeways split or join. At a split, expect last-second merge to make the almost-missed exit. At a join, expect a quick merge to get to the fast lane or an upcoming exit.  Avoid sharing lanes when another motorcycle rider is sharing between other nearby lanes as cars may make additional room for one rider and accidentally reduce space for another.

3. Your Environment:  Consider the total environment in which you are sharing, including the width of the lanes, size of surrounding vehicles, as well as roadway, weather, and lighting conditions.  Some lanes are narrower than others, leaving little room to pass safely. If you can't fit, don't share. Construction zones, or on an older freeways with an additional lane squeezed into the available space. The combination of a wide vehicle and narrow lane can be deadly.  Some vehicles are wider than others -- it is not advisable to split near wide trucks. If you can't fit, don't share. Even a small collision with a truck next to you is life threatening.  Know the limitations of your motorcycle --- wide bars, fairing and bags require more space between vehicles. If you can't fit, don't share.  Be aware of larger mirrors on pickup trucks and SUV’s.  Avoid sharing on unfamiliar to avoid surprises such as poor road surfaces. Seams, reflective dots in the pavement or between lanes can be hazardous if they are wide or uneven.  Gaps in traffic in one lane that invites a lane-change. Riding between lanes of bumper- to-bumper traffic gives you some protection because vehicles can't change lanes.  Poor visibility, due to darkness or weather conditions, makes it difficult for riders to see road hazards and makes it more difficult for drivers to see you.  Help drivers see you by wearing brightly colored protective gear and using high beams during daylight.

4. Be alert and anticipate possible movements by other road users:  Be very aware of what the cars around you are doing. If a space, or gap, opens up next to your lane, be prepared react accordingly. Cars will typically change lanes more often at slower speeds. Those gaps in traffic create a higher risk level for the rider in those conditions.  Always be prepared to take evasive action if a vehicle changes lanes.  Sudden lane change by multiple vehicles. This suggests debris or a stalled vehicle ahead.  Account for inattentive or distracted drivers.  Watch for problem drivers weaving or making multiple lane changes. You can spot them a few hundred feet away. Drivers who are thinking #1 looks good. Nope, it's #3. It was #2 all along!  Riders should not weave back and forth between lanes or ride on top of the line.  Riders should avoid lingering in blind spots. Driver searching for a lane change opportunity.  There's a major off ramp ahead, and he's boxed in. Head's on a swivel, and he's squeezing into the splitting corridor.  Slowing traffic ahead. As traffic slows, drivers anticipate bumper-to-bumper traffic and try to make needed lane changes while it's still possible. Ride with your head and eyes UP so you can spot a slowdown before the chaos begins.  When a motorcycle is sharing ahead follow at least two seconds behind. If you want to go faster, find a way when safe to do so.  When you see another rider approaching from behind, get out of the way as soon as possible. A tailgating rider puts YOU at risk if you have to brake to avoid a hazard.  Never ride while impaired by drugs, alcohol, or fatigue.  Constantly scan for changing conditions.

5. Tells – Things that help you know a driver is going to do something:  Driver’s head is moving rapidly.  Driver’s eyes are in the mirror.  Driver appears to be following navigation and is looking at a GPS device.  Driver’s eyes are down and traffic is slowing ahead.  Driver and passenger are arguing.  When a passenger is pointing out something off the side of the road.  Driver’s blinker is on – yeah!!

6. Stoplights and around town:  Splitting at stop lights - make sure you can safely leave ahead of the cars you are next to. If you are still stalling your motorcycle you should not be in this position.  Splitting at stop lights – o Watch for aggressive drivers who don’t want to let you go before them. o Watch for red light runners before you leave. o Watch for fast left turners who are trying to make the turn ahead of you. o Watch for people opening their doors. o Be aware of the timing of the lights. If the light turns green, slow and safely merge into traffic  At an or crosswalk watch for the late pedestrian or sprint.  In city traffic, in addition to lane-changers, you have cross-traffic to worry about. A vehicle, bicyclist, or pedestrian could be crossing through stopped traffic, not expecting a lane sharing motorcycle to come along.  Remember that large trucks may not be able to see you and even a small tip over when they are stopped could be deadly. The Four R's or “Be-Attitudes” of Lane Splitting:

Be Reasonable, be Responsible, be Respectful, be aware of all Roadway and traffic conditions.

 Reasonable means not more than 15 MPH faster than traffic flow.  You are Responsible for your own safety and decisions.  Don't put yourself in dangerous positions.  If you can't fit, don't share.  Be Respectful --- sharing the road goes both ways.  Don't rely on loud pipes to keep you safe, loud pipes often startle people and poison the attitude of car drivers toward motorcyclists. Revving your bike to let them know you are there is not well accepted or respectful.  Other vehicles are not required to make space for motorcycles to lane split.

Disclaimers:

These general tips are not guaranteed to keep you safe. Lane sharing should not be performed by inexperienced riders. These tips assume a good level of riding competency and experience. The recommendations contained here are only general in nature and cannot cover all possible combinations of situations and variables.

Personal Safety: Every rider has ultimate responsibility for his or her own decision making and safety. Riders must be conscious of reducing crash risk at all times. California law requires all motorcycle riders and passengers wear a helmet that complies with the DOT FMVSS 218 standard.

Risk of getting a ticket: Motorcyclists who lane split are not relieved of the responsibility to obey all existing traffic laws. With respect to possible law enforcement action, keep in mind that it will be up to the discretion of the Law Enforcement Officer to determine if riding behavior while lane sharing is or was safe and prudent.

Messages for Other Vehicle Drivers:

 Lane sharing by motorcycles is not illegal in California.  Motorists should not take it upon themselves to discourage motorcyclists from lane splitting.  Intentionally blocking or impeding a motorcyclist in a way that could cause harm to the rider is illegal (CVC 22400).  Opening a vehicle door to impede a motorcycle is illegal (CVC 22517).  Never drive while distracted.  You can help keep motorcyclists and all road users safe by  Checking mirrors and blind spots, especially before changing lanes or turning.  Signaling your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffic.  Allowing more following distance, three or four seconds, when behind a motorcycle so the motorcyclist has enough time to maneuver or stop in an emergency

Contributions:

(1) Quote by Tim Arnold seasoned CMSP and MSF Riding trainer and good friend. (2) Motorcyclist photo/Rider: By Eric Kondo fellow motorcycle racer, full time commuter and good friend. (3) Graphics by Kei Rei. (4) Additional Safety “Do’s and don’ts in Lane Sharing” tips by Dan Carter/ DataDan.

About the Author

Denny Kobza has been riding since he was 8 years old starting on dirt bikes. He started on the at 16 and rode through his college years. In his 20’s he started Motocross Racing switching to Road Course racing at 25 and retiring at 31. In retirement he began riding Harley’s. He continued riding all three types of motorcycles until 50 when he gave up riding the track and dirt. Since he has been doing more long distance riding on Adventure style machines. Denny is on two State Motorcycle Safety Committees, and was very involved in writing the guidelines. He owns and runs the Bay Area Riders Forum, which is the first AMA Online Motorcycle Community and the first Forum to be a CHP 11-99 Foundation member. He is dedicated to making advances in safety and riding for the pure joy of it…!