I would ask you to consider modifying the language of Statute 169.974 Subd 5e (No person shall operate a motorcycle between lanes of moving or stationary vehicles headed in the same direction, nor shall any person drive a motorcycle abreast of or overtake or pass another vehicle within the same traffic lane, except that motorcycles may, with the consent of both drivers, be operated not more than two abreast in a single traffic lane.) to allow for lane-splitting, or lane-sharing, to allow for a safer commute via motorcycle during all hours. There are many resources available to illustrate the benefit of lane-splitting. These benefits include a decreased risk to motorcyclists during heavy traffic, and even environmental benefits that include less time spent idling in traffic. This practise is common in most of the world, and is an approach that not only makes sense, but also helps save lives.

Here are a few things to look at regarding lane-splitting.

http://lanesplittingislegal.com/assets/studies-surveys/OTS-California-Lane-Splitting-Habits-Survey-2014.pdf

http://www.ridetowork.org/files/docs/MCs_reduce_congestion_Travel_Times_-_Conference_Leuven_study.pdf

http://lanesplittingislegal.com/assets/studies-surveys/Lane-splitting-California-freeways-James-Oulet.pdf

http://lanesplittingislegal.com/assets/papers/Lane-Sharing-A-Global-Solution-Motorcycle-Safety_Steve-Guderian.pdf

http://lanesplittingislegal.com/assets/papers/Lane-Sharing-Further-Evaluation-Final_Steve-Guderian.pdf

Thank you for your time.