Most bikers know about motorcycle terminology, but not everyone does. For instance, if you’re new to biking, you should learn about lane splitting and if it is legal in Canada. Likewise, all motorcyclists should understand lane filtering.


Because you enjoy the freedom biking gives you, it is best to protect yourself against collisions since bikers are the most vulnerable road users. This vulnerability is a good reason to understand lane filtering as well.


Stay with us as we explain these practices and whether they’re legal in Ontario, Alberta, and other Canadian provinces.


Lane Splitting in Canada


Lane splitting is a fairly common practice. When on the road, motorcyclists will deftly weave their way between slow-moving motor vehicles going in the same direction and across one or more lanes to get ahead.


Lane splitting is also known as white lining since bikers stay primarily on the white line between lanes as they move past motor vehicles in bumper traffic. Lane splitting also differs from lane sharing, where motorcyclists ride side by side or in a staggered formation.


Understanding Lane Filtering


Some people confuse lane splitting and lane filtering. Although very similar, lane filtering refers to jumping the queue between stationary motor vehicles. Motorists must stop at a red light. This period is when bikers may become opportunistic.


Instead of exercising patience and waiting their turn in these circumstances, some bikers will do lane filtering. They weave their way between stopped cars to the front of the line. As with lane splitting and lane sharing, lane filtering has its risks, so bikers are urged to use caution when engaging in these activities.


Are Lane Splitting and Lane Filtering Safe?


Motorcyclists who risk white lining and filtering, also risk injury to themselves and other road users. When traffic is congested, tempers tend to rise, adding another safety dynamic to road use, so blind spots can lead to rear-end collisions or worse. In short, careless driving can negatively impact everyone.


Despite concerns, there are benefits of lane splitting like saving time and relieving traffic congestion. These reasons are why bikers are promoting the legalization of this riding behaviour on the roads.


Is Lane Splitting Legal in Canada?


Bikers engage in lane splitting across various provinces in Canada, including Alberta, Toronto, and others in heavy traffic. Still, according to the Ministry of Transportation lane splitting is illegal in Canada. However, bikers across the country still use lane splitting to move between congested traffic.


Although white lining is illegal, some authorities are becoming less strict about enforcing the law as it helps relieve some congestion. However, bikers are urged to observe road rules and use common sense to keep themselves safe and protect car drivers.


Become a Part of the FFUN Motorcycle Family


 Contact us to learn how to become a part of the FFUN Motorcycle family by participating in our customer appreciation events. You can make friends and learn about each other and from each other regarding traffic jams, traffic laws, and motorcycle safety. We also offer test rides to build relationships, so join us for fun rides, events, advice about lane splitting, and more.