Rhode Island House Bill H7506

Rhode Island 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/22
• Refer: 2/16/22

Caption

Passing, Use Of Lanes, And Rules Of The Road

Impact

If enacted, H7506 would represent a significant shift in motor vehicle laws within the state. By permitting lane splitting, the bill aims to improve traffic flow for motorcycles and enhance rider safety. Proponents argue that enabling this practice could reduce congestion and prevent accidents, as motorcycles can avoid being sandwiched between larger vehicles in slow-moving traffic. This legislative change would necessitate the development of new rules and regulations by the relevant authorities to oversee and promote safe lane splitting practices.

Summary

House Bill 7506 seeks to amend the existing laws regarding the operation of motorcycles on public roadways, specifically addressing the practice of lane splitting. Introduced in February 2022, this bill allows motorcycles to navigate between lanes of stopped or slow-moving vehicles, a practice that has been contentious in various jurisdictions. The proposed law stipulates that lane splitting is permitted only when traffic is stopped or moving at a speed of no more than ten miles per hour and under specific conditions that include adherence to the speed limits of the road being traveled.

Contention

The discussions surrounding H7506 highlight important concerns regarding road safety and the implications for both motorcyclists and other drivers. While advocates believe that lane splitting can mitigate the risk of rear-end collisions for motorcyclists, skeptics raise concerns that it could lead to increased risks of accidents or conflicts between vehicles. Additionally, there is a debate about the adequacy of existing safety measures and the ability of law enforcement to effectively regulate this practice, which adds to the complexities surrounding the bill's implementation.