HB 2160

Washington State House of Representatives	BILL ANALYSIS

Transportation Committee

HB 2160

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Regarding the operation of motorcycles between lanes of traffic or vehicles.

Sponsors: Representatives Curtis, Lovick, Upthegrove, O'Brien, Moeller and Sells.

Brief Summary of Bill

Allows motorcycles to operate between lanes of traffic during periods of traffic congestion.

Hearing Date: 2/21/07

Staff: David Munnecke (786-7315).

Background:

A motorcycle operator is prohibited from operating his or her vehicle between lanes of traffic or between lines or rows of vehicles. A motorcycle operator is also prohibited from overtaking or passing in the same lane occupied by the vehicle that is being overtaken.

Summary of Bill:

A person is allowed to operate a motorcycle between lanes of traffic or between adjacent lines or rows of vehicles if:

the average speed of traffic is half or less than half of the posted speed limit;
there are two or more lanes of traffic proceeding in the same direction; and
a reasonable and prudent operator of a motorcycle would consider it safe to operate a motorcycle between the lanes of traffic at no more than 10 miles per hour over the average speed of traffic at that time.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.