Motorcycle Safety Reminder Issued in Prescott Valley

As motorcycle traffic increases across Arizona, Prescott Valley Police are reminding both riders and drivers to prioritize roadway safety. The recent legalization surrounding the limited motorcycle lane filtering may be creating confusion at a time when motorcycle fatalities continue to rise statewide.

Under Arizona law:

• Lane filtering allows a motorcycle to move between stopped vehicles at a traffic light or during stopped traffic conditions.
• Lane splitting is riding between vehicles that are still moving, which remains illegal in Arizona.

Understanding the distinction is important for both motorists and riders. Misinterpreting the law could contribute to risky riding behavior and create dangerous situations on already busy roadways.

According to the Arizona Department of Transportation data, 258 motorcyclists were killed in Arizona in 2023, the highest number in two decades and a 26% increase compared with 2019. It was also the deadliest year for Arizona riders since 1975.

Several factors may be contributing to the increase, including:

• More motorcycles on the road due to high fuel prices
• A strong economy leading to increased spending on recreational hobbies
• Risky riding behavior, including speeding and impairment

Officers know that even experienced riders can encounter dangerous situations quickly, which is why they encourage defensive riding habits such as:

• Assume you are invisible. Riders should avoid lingering in blind spots and position themselves where they are most visible to drivers.
• Look ahead. Scanning farther down the roadway helps riders identify hazards earlier and react more safely.
• Use extra caution at intersections. A large percentage of motorcycle crashes occur at intersections, especially when vehicles turn left in front of riders.
• Wearing a helmet
• Riding defensively
• Using high-visibility riding gear
• Remaining alert and avoiding impaired driving or riding

The Prescott Valley Police Department wants every rider and driver to make it home safely. Continued education, responsible riding, and increased awareness from everyone on the road can play an important role in improving motorcycle safety across Arizona.

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Prescott Valley Police Department can be contacted at 928-772-9267 for non-emergencies, and 911 for emergencies.

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