Tennessee House Bill HB1454

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/23
• Refer: 2/2/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 54 and Title 55, relative to operation of motorcycles on public highways.

Impact

The legislative change proposed by HB1454 could significantly alter traffic dynamics on Tennessee's highways by formalizing 'lane splitting' for motorcycles under specified conditions. Supporters of the bill are likely to argue that this change aids in reducing traffic congestion and improving safety for motorcyclists during heavy traffic. By allowing motorcycles to maneuver through slow-moving traffic, it could lessen the occurrence of rear-end collisions, which are a common risk for motorcyclists when surrounded by larger vehicles.

Summary

House Bill 1454 aims to amend Tennessee's traffic laws to allow motorcycle operators to travel between rows of stopped or moving vehicles on interstate highways and other limited access multilane divided highways. This new provision is applicable when the speed of traffic in the same direction is 25 mph or less, and permits motorcycles to proceed at a speed not exceeding 10 mph faster than the flow of traffic. The legislation seeks to improve the mobility of motorcyclists during congested traffic conditions, enhancing their safety and reducing the likelihood of accidents caused by motorcyclists being trapped in long lines of vehicles.

Contention

However, HB1454 may not be without controversy. The allowance for motorcycles to lane split could raise concerns about road safety for all vehicles. Opponents may express worries that this practice could lead to increased accidents, as drivers of other vehicles might not expect motorcycles to be maneuvering closely between them. There may also be questions about the enforcement of the new rules and the adequacy of public awareness regarding these changes. The balancing act between improving motorcycle safety and ensuring road safety for all users will undoubtedly be a point of contention throughout the legislative process.