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ARIZONA STATE SENATE
Fifty-Fifth Legislature, Second Regular Session
two-wheeled motorcycle operation
Purpose
Allows the rider of a motorcycle to overtake a motor vehicle in the same lane and specifies requirements needed to perform the action.
Background
Statute defines a motorcycle as a motor vehicle that has a seat or saddle for the use of the rider and that is designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground. Statute defines a motor driven cycle as a motorcycle, including every type of motor scooter, that has a motor that produces not more than five horsepower (A.R.S. § 28-101).
Statute entitles all motorcycles to the full use of a lane, except for the instance in which motorcycles ride side-by-side. The operator of a motorcycle may not overtake and pass a vehicle in the same lane or operate between lanes of traffic. Motorcycle operators are prohibited from riding more than two abreast in a single lane (A.R.S. § 28-903).
There is no anticipated fiscal impact to the state General Fund associated with this legislation.
Provisions
1. Allows the operator of a two-wheeled motorcycle to pass another vehicle in the same lane that is stopped in the same direction if the operator does all the following:
a) operates the motorcycle on a street that:
i. is divided into at least two adjacent traffic lanes in the same direction of travel; and
ii. has a speed limit that does not exceed 45 miles per hour;
b) travels at a speed that does not exceed 15 miles per hour; and
c) first ascertains that the action can be made safely.
2. Makes technical changes.
3. Becomes effective on the general effective date.
Prepared by Senate Research
January 27, 2022
RA/JM/sr