Rhode Island Senate Bill S0357

Rhode Island 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/23
• Refer: 2/16/23

Caption

Passing, Use Of Lanes, And Rules Of The Road

Impact

S0357 aims to improve the flow of motorcycle traffic and enhance road safety for both motorcyclists and other vehicular traffic. By allowing lane splitting, proponents argue that it can reduce congestion by enabling motorcycles to maneuver through stalled traffic, which could also potentially lower the risk of rear-end collisions. This amendment may impact state laws regarding the rights and regulations surrounding motorcycle operation, highlighting a shift toward more adaptive measures for managing modern traffic conditions.

Summary

Senate Bill S0357 is a proposed act focused on amending existing traffic regulations to permit lane splitting for motorcycles under specific conditions. Lane splitting refers to the practice of motorcycles riding between rows of stopped or slow-moving vehicles. According to the stipulations outlined in the bill, motorcycle operators may lane split when traffic is at a standstill or traveling at a maximum speed of 10 miles per hour and must not exceed 10 miles per hour over the speed of the current traffic flow. Furthermore, this provision applies only on highways where the posted speed limit exceeds 50 miles per hour.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding Bill S0357 include concerns about road safety and the potential for increased accidents. Opponents of the bill may argue that allowing lane splitting could lead to more hazardous situations if motorcyclists are not properly trained or if drivers are not aware of motorcycles maneuvering through traffic. Furthermore, the bill includes a sunset clause, meaning the permission for lane splitting would only be valid until January 28, 2024, raising questions about the permanent status of such regulations and the need for further evidence of safety and efficacy before a longer-term adoption.