This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to explicitly prohibit motorcycle lane splitting and lane filtering on public roadways, while also ensuring that motorcycles are entitled to the full use of a single traffic lane. The bill introduces a new section, 17C-7-9a, which defines "motorcycle," "lane splitting," and "lane filtering." It establishes that no person may engage in lane splitting or lane filtering, with certain exceptions, such as when directed by law enforcement, to avoid hazards, or during permitted events.

Additionally, the bill outlines penalties for violations, classifying them as misdemeanors with fines ranging from $100 for a first offense to $500 for third or subsequent offenses. The bill also allows the Division of Highways and the Division of Motor Vehicles to create rules for implementing these provisions and to incorporate them into driver licensing and motorcycle safety materials. The existing law is amended by deleting certain language related to traffic lane usage and adding the new regulations regarding motorcycle operation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 17C-7-9, 17C-7-9a