(KRON) — The controversial topic of motorcycle lane splitting on California freeways is about to become more controversial.
Lane splitting is when bikers navigate congested roads by driving through the middle of lanes. It has been a legal gray area in California, though law enforcement has permitted the practice. Other states explicitly ban lane splitting.
The State Senate and the State Assembly have passed AB51 which is now headed for the Governor’s desk for approval.
If the governor signs off on that bill it would allow the California Highway Patrol to set up guide lines for motorcyclists to safely split lanes.
The bill was sponsored by Hayward Assemblyman Bill Quirk:
With a 70-0 vote my bill on lane splitting is sent to Governor Brown for signature. It took two years, but I’m… https://t.co/RK4UaKvmH0
– Bill Quirk (@AsmBillQuirk) August 4, 2016
And with a 70-0 vote #AB51 heads to the governor! Grt teamwork made this possible @TomLackey36 @ama_riding pic.twitter.com/4lfFka1g9N
– Bill Quirk (@AsmBillQuirk) August 4, 2016
Here is the old CHP lane splitting guidelines:
