Many of us who ride motorcycles are alarmed and frustrated by the dangerous traffic situations in Virginia. The risk we encounter daily on roads with two or more lanes going in the same direction - stuck unprotected behind other vehicles - is high and often life-threatening. Lane filtering, a practice successfully implemented in many regions worldwide, could mitigate this risk.

Lane filtering allows motorcyclists to move between lanes of slow-moving or stationary vehicles, thereby reducing their vulnerability in heavy traffic. It also contributes to better overall traffic flow, benefiting all road users. It has already been made legal in states like California and Utah, evidencing constructive results and increased road safety.

The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles recorded approximately 2,119 motorcycle accidents in 2019. Despite safety measures, motorcyclists are still 28 times more likely than passenger car occupants to die in a motor-vehicle crash, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Considering the positive impact successfully demonstrated by other states and the worrying accident rates in Virginia, we plead for the legalization of lane filtering for motorcyclists on roadways with two or more lanes moving in the same direction. This change will not only promote safety but also reduce congestion, making our roads safer and smoother for everyone. Sign this petition to show your support for safer and more efficient roadways in Virginia.