Motorcycle Filtering

In the near future - probably next year - the French government will introduce a three-year trial of permitting filtering (use of the space between lanes of cars)  under certain circumstances.  A similar trial was made over a five year period, but was judged to have inconclusive results.

Basically, this trial will take place in 21 departments, and be applied on certain autoroutes and dual carraigeways with central reservations, where the speed limit is over 70 kph/45 mph.

Filtering will be permitted for two and three-wheeled vehicles whicih are less than 1 metre wide in congested, stationary, or slow-moving traffic at speeds of no more than 50 kph/30 mph, subject to a speed no more than 30 kph/18 mph faster than surrounding traffic - whether it is moving or stationary.

Filtering should take place between traffic in the left-hand and other lanes, and must not involve the overtaking of any other two-wheeled vehicle which is also filtering.  Traffic in the adjacent lanes should therefore allow space for safe filtering.

Remember - this is a trial, and will not be generally adopted on all dual carraigeways throughout France.  Look out for dual carraigeways with signs showing filtering in action, with a 50 kph speed limit above a small picture of a motorcycle and the wording 'en inter-files.'  On such roads try to keep to the side of your lane to maximise space for filtering motorcyclists.

Also remember that not all drivers may be aware of this trial, and may not always maintain a suitable distance from the adjacent lane.  Also keep a wary eye open for French riders, many of whom cannot tell the difference between prudent safe filtering and high-speed overtaking on the inside!