Staff Reports
WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — The 25th Navajo Nation Council approved legislation amending Title 14 of the Navajo Nation Code July 27 to allow limited motorcycle traffic lane filtering under specific safety conditions, aligning portions of the Nation’s traffic laws with neighboring jurisdictions while prioritizing motorcyclist safety.
Sponsored by Council Delegate Vince R. James, Legislation No. 0064-26 authorizes operators
of two-wheeled motorcycles to carefully overtake stopped vehicles by traveling between
lanes only under narrowly defined conditions. The legislation permits lane filtering only on
roadways with at least two lanes traveling in the same direction where the posted speed
limit doesn’t exceed 45 mph and requires motorcycles to travel no faster than 15 mph while
filtering.
“Public safety is the driving force behind this legislation, and it establishes clear standards for when and how motorcycle lane filtering may occur,” James said. “This legislation provides motorcyclists with an additional safety measure while ensuring that roadway users understand the conditions under which lane filtering is permitted.”
The legislation was developed in response to evolving traffic safety practices and recognizes that motorcyclists face an increased risk of rear-end collisions when stopped in congested traffic. Lawmakers determined that allowing limited lane filtering under controlled circumstances can improve rider safety, enhance traffic flow, and provide greater consistency with surrounding state transportation laws while preserving safeguards for all motorists.
By adopting clearly defined operating standards, the amendment seeks to improve regulatory consistency, increase public awareness, and reduce the potential traffic collisions.
The legislation was approved by the Navajo Nation Council under the consent agenda by a vote of 21 in favor and none opposed. The Navajo Nation Council serves as the final authority on the legislation.
