What is the main risk of "lane splitting"?

Lane splitting refers to the practice of riding a motorcycle between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic. The main risk associated with this maneuver is indeed the increased chance of being hit by other vehicles. This risk arises primarily because as a motorcycle moves between lanes, it may not always be visible to drivers who are focused on the vehicles directly in front of them. Additionally, other motorists might not expect a motorcycle to be present in that narrow space, especially if they are changing lanes or making turns.

When drivers are unaware of the motorcycle’s position, it increases the likelihood of accidents. Moreover, if traffic suddenly becomes more congested or if a vehicle attempts to change lanes without checking their mirrors, the motorcycle can be caught in a precarious situation, leading to collisions.

Understanding this risk is crucial for motorcycle riders who wish to use lane splitting as a technique to navigate through traffic safely. Awareness of their surroundings, the behavior of nearby vehicles, and their position on the road can help mitigate this risk, enhancing their overall safety while riding.