WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 365

Traffic control: traffic regulation; filtering between lanes by a motorcycle; allow under certain conditions. Amends sec. 660 of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.660).

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kevin Daley and 2 co-sponsors

Michigan bill would permit motorcycles to filter between lanes under unspecified conditions, balancing rider safety against other drivers' accident risks.

SENATE CO-SPONSOR(S) REMOVED: VERONICA KLINEFELT
#trafficcontrol:trafficregulation #vehicles:motorcycles
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 365

Legislative bill overview

SB 365 would amend Michigan traffic law to permit motorcycles to filter between lanes (lane splitting) under specified conditions. Currently, Michigan law prohibits this practice. The bill carves out a limited exception to existing traffic regulations that treat lane-filtering as illegal.

Why is this important

Lane-filtering is a safety and traffic flow issue with competing evidence. Proponents argue it reduces accident risk for motorcyclists and eases congestion; opponents contend it increases risks for other drivers who may not anticipate motorcycles moving between lanes. This represents a shift in how Michigan regulates motorcycle operation and could affect insurance, accident liability, and traffic enforcement practices.

Potential points of contention

  • Safety disagreement: Studies on lane-filtering safety are mixed; some show reduced injury risk for motorcyclists in certain conditions, while others emphasize collision risks with vehicles changing lanes
  • "Certain conditions" ambiguity: The bill references undefined conditions for when filtering is allowed, leaving critical operational details to be determined—unclear what speed, congestion, or traffic thresholds would apply
  • Enforcement challenges: Police would need new training to distinguish legal filtering from illegal unsafe driving, and officers may struggle consistently applying undefined restrictions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.