Lane Splitting Benefits

While lane-splitting provides safety options for motorcyclists and is beneficial for reduction of travel time and congestion, it also offers economic and environmental advantages as well as personal advantages for motorcyclists. As Mulvhill and her co-authors point out, lane-splitting is economically beneficial because it allows for better gas mileage for motorcyclists (Mulvihill, et al). Driven by the desire to save money otherwise spent on gas, automobilists might convert to driving motorcycles. Doing so “…could be environmentally beneficial as motorcycles have greater fuel efficiency than automobiles, emit less greenhouse gasses, and also contribute less wear to the roads and infrastructure” (Sperley and Pietz 1). In this way, lane-splitting
positively impacts the environment. Additionally, Alvarez explains that there are personal benefits of lane-splitting for motorcyclists. She notes that because the motorcyclist does not have to idle in stopped traffic, his motorcycle is not as apt to overheat and thus breakdown. Moreover, lane-splitting prevents the motorcyclist from being stuck directly behind the exhaust pipe of an idling car and breathing in the noxious fumes emitted from that car (3). However, given all the benefits of lane-splitting, one stipulation must be noted. While lane-splitting can be beneficial, it is only beneficial when done safely, prudently, and responsibly.