New laws allow motorbike and scooter drivers to weave between traffic

MOTORBIKES and scooter riders have been given the green light to weave in between­ cars in slow-moving traffic.

Motorbikes will be allowed to weave between traffic. Picture: MARK STEWART

MOTORBIKES and scooter riders have been given the green light to weave in between­ cars.

The law allowing lane filtering — allowing motorcycles and scooters to travel through stopped or slow-moving traffic — comes into effect today but the manoeuvre will be limited to speeds of up to 30km/h.

Lane splitting — which is weaving between traffic at speeds greater than 30km/h — will remain illegal. Under the new law slow manoeuvres between­ cars is legal, but riders must not hold a learner’s permit­ or drive between a kerb and a car.

It is hoped the new rule will ease tension between drivers and motorbikes by clarifying what is allowed.

Previously motorists have rated bikes weaving in between­ traffic as a pet hate.

Chair of the Victorian Motor­cycle Council Rob Salvatore said clarifying the rule was a step forward.

Minister for Roads Luke Donnellan said the move would help road users.

“The Andrews Labor Government is delivering on our commitment to introduce new lane filtering laws which will improve road safety and address­ congestion,” he said.