Should SB1412 be enacted, it would significantly alter the legal landscape for motorcycle operation on the state's roadways. The proposed law would generate stricter compliance measures regarding lane usage for motorcyclists, thus aligning Arizona's motorcycle regulations more closely with those of other states where lane splitting is banned. Safety advocates support the legislation, asserting that the prohibition of lane splitting may reduce accidents involving motorcycles, particularly in congested traffic scenarios, and contribute to clearer traffic management overall.
Summary
SB1412 is a legislative proposal aimed at repealing the current provisions that permit lane splitting by motorcyclists in Arizona. Lane splitting refers to the practice where motorcycles navigate between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic. The bill amends sections 28-729 and 28-903 of the Arizona Revised Statutes, effectively disallowing motorcycles from operating between lanes of traffic and tightening regulations on how motorcycles can operate within designated lanes. This change proposes to enhance safety for both motorcyclists and other vehicle operators by mitigating the risks associated with lane splitting.
Contention
However, the bill has faced opposition from motorcycle advocacy groups, which argue that lane splitting, when done responsibly, can enhance safety by reducing the risk of rear-end collisions that motorcycles are prone to when stopped in traffic. Opponents of SB1412 believe that the repeal could lead to increased danger for motorcyclists who may be discouraged by stricter regulations, potentially leading to more significant traffic issues. The discussions surrounding the bill indicate a division between those prioritizing overall traffic safety and those advocating for motorcyclist rights and operational freedoms.