Ruqayyah Snyder
Lane splitting, or riding between two lanes at speeds greater than 30 km/h, is illegal in Australia. Lane filtering, on the other hand, is allowed in most states at speeds of 30 km/h or less. However, lane filtering is prohibited in certain areas, such as near pedestrian crossings or in zones with high levels of pedestrian activity, to ensure the safety of both pedestrians and motorcyclists. While some states lack specific regulations against lane splitting, it is generally discouraged due to safety concerns.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Lane splitting legality in Australia | Not legal anywhere in Australia |
| Lane filtering legality in Australia | Legal in most states with numerous restrictions |
| Lane filtering speed limit | 30 km/h |
| Lane filtering rules | Not allowed on pedestrian crossings, near roadworks, school zones, shared zones, or near a stationary emergency vehicle |
| Lane filtering penalties | $100 and 2 demerit points in Western Australia; 3 demerit points and an expiation fee in South Australia |
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What You'll Learn
Lane filtering is legal in most Australian states
Lane filtering is prohibited in certain areas to ensure pedestrian safety. For instance, motorcyclists cannot lane filter between a line of traffic and the kerb, next to the edge of the road, or near parked cars. Lane filtering is also not permitted in areas with high levels of pedestrian activity, such as near shops and cafes, roadworks, school zones, shared zones, and pedestrian priority zones.
In Western Australia, lane filtering is not allowed when approaching or riding on a children's or pedestrian crossing. Additionally, moped riders with a car licence are prohibited from lane filtering in South Australia, and it is also not permitted in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) and certain situations in the Northern Territory.
Lane splitting, on the other hand, is generally regarded as illegal in Australia. Lane splitting refers to filtering done at unsafe speeds over 30 km/h. While some states don't have explicit regulations against lane splitting, it is seen as a dangerous practice that should be avoided.
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Lane splitting is illegal in Western Australia
In Western Australia, lane filtering is governed by the Road Traffic Code 2000 r.130A, which prioritises the safety of motorcycle riders and all other road users. Riders who engage in lane filtering at speeds exceeding 30 km/h are subject to a penalty of $100 and 2 demerit points. Lane filtering is prohibited in certain areas, such as near shops and cafes, roadworks, school zones, and where there is a stationary emergency vehicle with flashing lights. It is also not allowed when approaching or riding on a children's or pedestrian crossing, next to parked cars, or between heavy vehicles.
The high-speed nature of lane splitting increases the risk of crashes and poses a danger to both motorcyclists and other road users. While some states in Australia lack specific regulations prohibiting lane splitting, it is generally discouraged as a dangerous practice. Motorcyclists are already overrepresented in serious and fatal crashes, and lane splitting further exacerbates the risk of accidents, especially at roundabouts and when riding alongside heavy vehicles.
To ensure the safety of all road users, it is crucial for motorcyclists to adhere to the speed limit and lane filtering regulations in Western Australia. By obeying the speed limit and following the rules for lane filtering, motorcyclists can help reduce the risk of harm to themselves and other road users, including pedestrians. While lane splitting may be tempting to save time, it is essential to prioritise safety and follow the legal speed limits and lane usage regulations.
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Lane splitting is illegal in the Australian Capital Territory
Lane filtering, on the other hand, is allowed in most Australian states and territories, including the ACT, but with certain restrictions. Lane filtering involves motorcyclists moving past slow-moving vehicles at speeds of up to 30 km/h. This practice is designed to improve the safety of motorcyclists and all other road users. However, lane filtering is prohibited in certain areas, such as near pedestrian crossings, roadworks, school zones, and emergency vehicles.
In the ACT, lane splitting is not permitted, and motorcyclists who engage in this practice may be subject to penalties and demerit points. The ACT prioritizes the safety of all road users and aims to reduce the risk of accidents and serious injuries. By prohibiting lane splitting and regulating lane filtering, the ACT strives to create a safer environment for motorcyclists, drivers, and pedestrians alike.
It's important for motorcyclists in the ACT to be aware of the rules and regulations regarding lane splitting and lane filtering. While lane filtering can be a convenient way to navigate through traffic, it must be done within the specified speed limits and in designated areas. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in legal consequences and contribute to unsafe road conditions.
By following the road rules and practicing safe riding habits, motorcyclists in the ACT can help ensure the well-being of everyone on the road. Adhering to the speed limits, being mindful of pedestrian activity, and avoiding lane splitting are key aspects of responsible motorcycling in the territory. These measures enable a harmonious and secure sharing of the roads among all road users in the Australian Capital Territory.
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Lane splitting is considered dangerous
Lane splitting is not legal anywhere in Australia. Lane filtering, on the other hand, is legal in most states, but with several restrictions. Lane splitting is considered a dangerous practice and is generally discouraged. Here's why:
Lane splitting involves a motorcycle riding in between two lanes of traffic, often at unsafe speeds. This practice can be extremely risky as it only takes one driver to not pay attention and suddenly change lanes, resulting in a collision with the motorcycle. Even with precautions, a motorcycle rider may still end up in a car's blind spot and be at risk of an accident.
Statistics show that one-fifth of all motorcycle accidents are a result of lane splitting. While lane splitting at the same speed as the rest of the traffic may not increase accident risk, going even 10 mph faster significantly increases the danger. In the event of an accident, the motorcyclist is more likely to rear-end another vehicle, strike a side mirror, or be thrown off their bike and into the path of another vehicle.
Lane-splitting accidents are also more likely during commute times when traffic is heavier and more unpredictable. Additionally, lane splitting can be confusing for other drivers, who may not expect a motorcycle to be passing between lanes. This can lead to dangerous situations where the intentions of the motorcyclist are misjudged or not seen at all.
Furthermore, lane splitting can be dangerous for the motorcyclist themselves. They may encounter obstacles such as side mirrors or sudden lane changes, increasing the risk of losing control or falling off their bike. It's important for motorcyclists to be vigilant and aware of the potential risks and dangers of lane splitting, even when it seems like a convenient option to get ahead in traffic.
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Lane filtering is prohibited in certain areas
Lane filtering is legal in most Australian states and territories, but the rules around it vary. Lane filtering is prohibited in certain areas, and there are heavy penalties for riders who don't follow the rules.
In Western Australia, lane filtering is not allowed when approaching or riding on a children's or pedestrian crossing. Lane splitting is illegal in Western Australia. In South Australia, moped riders with a car licence must not lane filter. The penalty for unlawful lane filtering in South Australia is an expiation fee and three demerit points.
In Queensland, lane filtering is only allowed for riders with an open licence. It is not permitted for riders with a P1 Provisional or Learner's permit. Lane filtering is illegal in school zones during school hours, near parked cars, on the kerb, or on roundabouts. Riders in Queensland are also not allowed to use a bicycle lane to lane filter.
In the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), lane splitting is not permitted.
In Tasmania, lane filtering is permitted for riders with a full motorcycle licence when it is safe to do so and when they are travelling at no more than 30 km/h.
In Victoria and New South Wales, fully licensed motorcyclists must only lane filter when travelling less than 30 km/h, and when it is safe to do so. Motorcyclists caught lane splitting in New South Wales face heavy fines and three demerit points.
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Frequently asked questions
Lane splitting, or riding between lanes at speeds greater than 30 km/h, is illegal in Australia.
Lane filtering is when a motorcyclist rides at a speed of 30 km/h or less between two lanes of stationary or slow-moving vehicles. Lane filtering is legal in most Australian states, with certain restrictions.
Lane filtering is illegal in Western Australia, South Australia, the Australian Capital Territory, and the Northern Territory.
Lane filtering is prohibited in areas with high levels of pedestrian activity, such as near shops and cafes, and in areas where particular care needs to be taken, such as roadworks, school zones, and pedestrian priority zones. Lane filtering is also not allowed between a line of traffic and the kerb, next to parked cars, or between heavy vehicles.
Penalties for illegal lane splitting or lane filtering vary depending on the state and the specific circumstances of the offence. In Western Australia, for example, a penalty of $100 and 2 demerit points applies to riders who do not follow lane filtering rules. In South Australia, the penalty for unlawful lane filtering includes an expiation fee and 3 demerit points.
