The California Highway Patrol’s 2013 guidelines for safe lane-splitting are not only good to remember in case your home state makes lane-splitting legal, they are good rules to remember when passing and when riding in general.
If you can't fit, don't split:
Some lanes are narrower than others, leaving little room to pass safely.
Some vehicles are wider than others -- it is not advisable to split near wide trucks.
Wide bars, fairings, and bags require more space between vehicles.
Avoid splitting on unfamiliar roads to avoid surprises such as poor road surfaces.
Be careful of wide or uneven seams between lanes.
Wear brightly colored protective gear and use high beams during daylight.
Be very aware of what the cars around you are doing:
Always be prepared to take evasive action if a vehicle changes lanes.
Account for inattentive or distracted drivers.
Constantly scan for changing conditions.
Do not weave back and forth between lanes.
Avoid lingering in blind spots.
Never ride while impaired by drugs, alcohol, or fatigue.
Yet, there’s no denying it: Unless you plan to ride exclusively around the Southern United States, you’ll face some chilly winters. And even before it...
