New motorcycle law will take time to get used to

As of Sept. 24, motorcycle riders will be allowed to legally drive between cars at a stop light. This is known as lane filtering and was passed by the state Legislature in their last session. The reason that lane filtering will be allowed is for the protection of motorcycle riders, not to annoy drivers, even though both results will undoubtedly happen.

Motorcycle riders are at great risk of being squashed between two cars if they are at the end of the line. There are many instances of drivers failing to see the motorcycle and rear ending it.

For drivers, when you see a motorcycle slipping past you at a traffic light, don’t panic. The rider will simply move to the front of the line and be gone as soon as the light changes. Just be aware and give them a little room.

For bikers, yeah, it’s pretty cool, but try not to be intimidating. Don’t rev your engine to show off your loud pipes and don’t cuss at the drivers who are still learning the new rules.

It will take time for everyone to get used to the new law, but, like it or not, it’s here. This has worked in other states for years. We can make it work here too.

GERRY REAGAN Yuma