Is it illegal to filter on a motorcycle?

Traffic on motorway

Is it illegal to filter on a motorcycle?

There is a common belief among motorists that it is illegal for motorcyclists to ride between lanes of queuing or slow-moving traffic.

This is not true.

And in our experience, too many bikers have experienced victim blaming after they were struck by negligent drivers. So we are here to shed light on a number of issues which we believe will clarify the rules, prevent accidents and keep people safe.

What is filtering?

Filtering is when a motorcyclist and moped or scooter rider (or even a cyclist) move between rows of stationary or slow-moving traffic. This is commonly seen on dualled roads during periods of congestion, with motorbikes driving up the middle while other road users need to sit and wait.

As frustrating as it might be for other vehicle drivers to watch bikes go where they cannot, this technique is legal.

Rule 88 of the Highway Code – a section that specifically relates to motorcycle manoeuvring – confirms a biker is allowed to filter. This section also makes clear that traffic does not need to be stationary and that a motorbike is allowed to filter in slow-moving traffic.

The only guidance made clear is that the biker continues to be mindful of their surroundings (in case pedestrians step out or other vehicles emerge from junctions) and that they position themselves in such a way that other motorists can see them in their mirrors.

Safety tips for filtering

Safe filtering really comes down to the individual rider assessing the conditions in front of them.

Too often filtering accidents occur because other vehicle drivers failed to see the motorbike.

But while the Highway Code and other traffic laws and regulations confirm your right to filter, as a rider there are still steps you could take – and should – take to consider your safety and the safety of others.

Mind your speed – and be visible

It’s not enough to feel in control of your own speed. Other road users need to be able to anticipate you as well. Going slower not only gives other road users more time to see you but it can also reduce the severity of injuries in the event of a collision: because the faster you go, the more damage can be caused.

If nothing else, in the event something does go wrong, it’s much easier to defend yourself from counter-arguments of liability if you can show you were only doing 5-10mph compared to 30mph.

If your bike doesn’t have daytime running lights then it’s good practice to have your headlight running during the day to increase your visibility. And high-visibility clothes and helmets obviously go without saying.

Mind the conditions

Weather. Road surface. Road debris like leaves or gravel. All these things can impact your ability to respond to sudden changes in the behaviour of other vehicles.

Mind the road layout

Filtering should not be attempted when there are:

  • Solid white lines on the road
  • ‘No overtaking’ signs
  • Pedestrian crossings ahead

Failure to comply with road markings and signage means your conduct could very well be argued as a dangerous overtake rather than responsible filtering – and potentially even result in criminal charges.

Mind other road users

If you’re filtering then there’s a good chance it’s because of a traffic jam. Such situations are already frustrating and stressful, and there’s already evidence that shows frustrated drivers can behave erratically.

This might be seen by vehicles suddenly – and without using indicator lights – switching lanes or pulling off to make a junction. Such manoeuvres can lead to accidents because the driver might be too busy looking ahead for space in the queue rather than looking in the mirrors for bikes.

It’s in these situations that riding slowly and visibly, matters.

Whatever the circumstances, filtering will always be a risk. It will always be a judgment call for motorcyclists. Whether it’s through a three-mile tailback on the motorway or just a 100 yards through a city centre.

Be slow. Be visible. Be considerate.

You have a right to safety while filtering, but so do other road users. If you crash with another person then they might be hurt too. It’s in everyone’s interest to drive considerately. 

Your welfare, your family and your liberty are worth more than any time you might save.

As a rule of thumb – filter like the biker you’d want to encounter if you were stuck in the car.

Image
Contact us button