I am writing to urge policymakers in Alabama to enact legislation that allows for "safe lane filtering" for motorcyclists. As an avid supporter of motorcycle safety, this matter is personal to me due to the number of riders who suffer injuries or even lose their lives each year from being rear-ended in heavy traffic. The statistics are clear and heartbreaking - motorcyclists are 37 times more likely to die in a crash per mile traveled than automobile drivers.

Lane filtering is a practice that permits motorcyclists to navigate through slow-moving traffic by riding safely between lanes. Evidence from jurisdictions where lane filtering is legal, such as California and several countries in Europe and Australia, shows a significant decrease in rear-end collisions involving motorbikes. Lane filtering has been proven to enhance rider safety, reduce traffic congestion, and decrease emissions by allowing motorcycles to move through congested areas quickly.

Alabama's current traffic conditions often leave riders vulnerable to inattentive drivers, especially in bumper-to-bumper traffic. Allowing lane filtering can be a critical step towards reducing the risk of bodily harm to motorcyclists by enabling them to move away from congested areas where the likelihood of being struck from behind is markedly higher.

To ensure the practice is safe and efficient, legislation can include specific guidelines outlining when and where lane filtering would be appropriate, such as during slow traffic conditions when vehicles are moving at 15 mph or less, and not permitted in school zones. With these thoughtful considerations, Alabama can adopt a practical and effective approach to protect its motorcyclists while aligning with successful practices from other regions.

This change is not just about policy; it's about saving lives and preventing severe injuries. I urge you to stand with me in supporting this initiative to improve the safety and well-being of all motorcyclists on the roads of Alabama. Please sign this petition to help us advocate for "safe lane filtering" legislation in Alabama. Together, we can make our roads safer for everyone.