Motorbike riders in New Zealand have specific rules about moving between traffic lanes. These rules help keep everyone safe on the road while allowing bikes to move more efficiently through congested areas.
Definition and Legality in New Zealand
Lane splitting is legal in New Zealand when done safely. It involves riding a motorcycle between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic.
Riders must stay within 15 km/h of the surrounding traffic speed when lane splitting. This helps prevent accidents and keeps everyone safe.
Motorcyclists need to be extra careful when splitting lanes in heavy traffic. They should watch for cars changing lanes and doors opening.
Comparison with Undertaking
Undertaking means passing vehicles on their left side, which is different from lane splitting. In New Zealand, motorcyclists should avoid undertaking as it’s less safe than proper lane splitting.
The proper way to pass is on the right side of vehicles within the same lane. This is where drivers expect to see passing vehicles.
Lane splitting creates some tension between motorcyclists and other road users. Clear communication and respectful riding help reduce this friction.
Safety Concerns and Benefits
Lane splitting lets motorcyclists move through traffic more efficiently while reducing their risk of being hit from behind. When done properly, it can benefit both riders and other road users.
Navigating through Traffic Safely
Lane splitting safety depends on several key factors. Riders need to maintain safe speeds and stay alert to potential hazards.
Large vehicles pose extra challenges. Motorcyclists should avoid splitting near trucks and buses since these vehicles have much wider blind spots and take up more lane space.
Wet weather makes lane splitting more dangerous. Poor visibility and slippery road surfaces increase risks for riders trying to navigate between vehicles.
Impact on Public Transport
Bus and coach drivers need extra awareness of motorcyclists who may split lanes near their vehicles. Public transport vehicles make frequent stops, which affects how riders should approach splitting nearby.
Safe sharing of the road between buses and lane splitting motorcyclists helps keep traffic flowing smoothly. Riders should:
- Wait for buses to complete passenger pickups before passing
- Watch for pedestrians near bus stops
- Give buses extra space when merging back into traffic
Proper lane splitting practices help prevent delays to public transport schedules while keeping everyone safe.
Public Perception and Education
The views of motorists and motorcyclists about lane splitting vary quite a bit in New Zealand, with safety and road sharing being key topics of discussion for everyone.
Public Opinion on Lane Splitting
Lane splitting causes friction between motorcyclists and other road users on New Zealand roads. Some car drivers feel nervous when bikes pass between lanes, while others support it.
Many drivers have mixed feelings about the practice. Research shows that driver attitudes towards lane filtering play a big role in motorcycle safety.
Some motorcyclists point out that lane splitting should be encouraged since bikes take up less space on the road. This helps reduce traffic congestion for everyone.
Educational Initiatives and Campaigns
The Ride Forever programme helps teach both riders and drivers about safe lane splitting practices. They recommend riders stay within 15 km/h of traffic flow speed when splitting lanes.
Road safety groups use websites and mobile apps to share tips about proper lane splitting. These tools help spread awareness about safe practices.
Local motorcycle clubs often run social media campaigns to educate the public. They share simple guidelines and real experiences to help improve understanding between all road users.