HB 149, Traffic Code Amendments, aims to improve the flow of traffic and safety of Utah roads through the allowance of lane filtering.
According to the Department of Public Safety, data on motorcyclist accidents from 2011-17 indicates roughly 288 rear-end accidents. This bill, sponsored by Sen. David Hinkins, is an effort to help reduce the number of accidents by allowing lane filtering for motorcyclists.
When vehicles are stopped in two or more adjacent lanes, in the same lane of traffic, motorcycles would be allowed to drive between the stopped lanes. Provisions in the bill still require this to be done safely; lane filtering is only allowed on roads under 50 mph, with completely stopped traffic, and the motorcycle is traveling no more than 15 mph. Previous research has shown this would increase motorcycle usage and reduce road congestion. The lane filtering program would go into effect for three years, at which point legislators would determine how beneficial the practice has been and enact further legislation as needed. The bill passed both the House and Senate, and was sent to the governor for his consideration. You can read or check out audio/video of the bill here. Tags: hb 149, hinkins, motorcycles, traffic, utah legislature, utah senate