Danish Motorcyclists Seek Legal Right to Filter Through Traffic Jams

Motorcyclists in Denmark should be allowed to weave between cars in traffic jams, according to the Danish Motorcycle Union (MCTC). The organization argues that this practice would not only improve rider comfort on hot days but also help alleviate traffic congestion.

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On the one hand, it can be very hot for us to stand still on a summer day. But also because it helps to clear traffic.

Mario Riewerts, director of MCTC, told TV2 Østjylland that these are the two primary reasons for changing the law, which currently imposes fines for such maneuvers. He believes that permitting lane filtering could contribute to smoother traffic flow.

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I can understand that it can seem extremely tempting when you are on a motorcycle and can see that you can get through such a queue. Therefore, I can understand their wish.

However, the Council for Road Safety (Rådet for Sikker Trafik) is not convinced. Vice Director Karina Petersen stated that a council study indicates most Danish motorcyclists use their bikes for leisure, with very few commuting to work. Allowing lane filtering, she fears, would worsen road safety.

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But we still have a concern that if this is made legal, it could result in some accidents or near-misses and thereby also some insecurity.

"I can understand that it can seem extremely tempting when you are on a motorcycle and can see that you can get through such a queue," Petersen said. "But we still have a concern that if this is made legal, it could result in some accidents or near-misses and thereby also some insecurity." She explained that motorcycles often approach at high speeds, making it difficult for car drivers to accurately assess their speed, which could lead to dangerous situations if a car driver decides to change lanes.

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If you are then lying there in a queue and want to change lanes, there is a risk that some unpleasant accidents can occur.