In this ‘Seattle911‘ piece in online-only Seattle PI, writer Casey McNerthney asked the Washington State Patrol (Washington’s state police) “Is lane splitting legal?”
State Patrol Trooper Dan McDonald responded:
“I have heard in some states this is legal, however in Washington State it is not. Motorcycles have to abide by the same rules of the road as other motorized vehicles.”
This is based on section 46.61.608 of the Revised Code of Washington. The code specifically states that motorcyclists ”shall not overtake and pass in the same lane occupied by the vehicle being overtaken” and riders “shall operate a motorcycle between lanes of traffic.” Two bikes in the same lane is ok, and of course LEOs are exempted.
McDonald goes further, saying “If someone is to observe this happen I would recommend calling 911 to report the aggressive motorcycle. Provide a description of the motorcycle, an article of clothing on the driver, and a license plate of the motorcycle if possible.”
Wow, lane splitting is an emergency in Washington state. However, McDonald does recommend against ”moving your vehicle closer to the skip line or opening your door so the motorcycle can’t pass as this may lead to a collision or a road rage incident.”
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