Lane splitting, also known as lane filtering, where motorcycles share lanes with cars and trucks to reduce traffic congestion, is a widespread practice around the world. In the U.S., only California allowed the practice for many years, though it was not legally sanctioned until 2016. (Two studies in 2014 showed that the practice is safe.) In 2018, Utah became the second state to legally recognize lane splitting. And now Montana has enacted legislation to allow the practice, which goes into effect on October 1, 2021.

The following is a press release issued by the American Motorcyclist Association:

PICKERINGTON, Ohio ? Montana has become the third state to recognize lane filtering, with the Gov. Greg Gianforte?s signature on a bill legalizing filtering of motorcycles under certain conditions. ?We applaud the efforts of Montana?s motorcycling community and the state?s legislators, and thank Gov. Gianforte for signing this legislation into law,? said Russ Ehnes, chair of the AMA Board of Directors.
AMA Board Chairman Russ Ehnes and Montana lawmakers. (Photo courtesy of the AMA)

S.B. 9 allows the operator of a two-wheeled motorcycle to overtake stopped or slow-moving vehicles at a speed not in excess of 20 mph, to filter between lanes of stopped traffic traveling in the same direction as conditions permit, and specifies reasonable and prudent motorcycle operation while lane filtering.

?With the signing of S.B. 9, Montanans have recognized the benefits of lane ...