Although "inter-filing" or "lane splitting" has been allowed since 2016 in our neighbouring country, it will be prohibited starting 1 January 2025. Those who violate the new regulation will face a €135 fine.

Starting 1 January 2025, driving in between lanes to avoid traffic congestion, a practice allowed in certain parts of France since 2016, will officially be banned. Motorcyclists who disobey the new regulation will face a €135 fine and lose three points on their license. Despite the change, it remains unclear whether the law will successfully deter bikers from weaving between cars – a maneuver often seen as practical and efficient during traffic jams.

This practice, also known as "inter-filing" or "lane splitting" refers to motorcyclists passing between two vehicles, typically during congested traffic. Since 2016, this maneuver has been legally permitted in 21 French departments as part of a trial. Under the rules, motorcyclists were allowed to interfile at speeds under 50 km/h and with a speed difference of no more than 30 km/h compared to other vehicles, but only on highways or major roads during traffic jams.

Many drivers cooperated, shifting their vehicles slightly to allow motorcyclists to pass, often acknowledged with a hand or foot signal from the biker. However, as the trial ends in 2024, the practice will once again be prohibited, reverting to the pre-2016 legal framework. Violators will be subject to a fourth-class penalty of €135 and the aforementioned license points deduction.

The decision has sparked outrage among the motorcycling community. "Interfiling has been practiced for many years, long before it was officially tolerated," states Automobile Magazine. The outlet predicts that, much like laws aimed at curbing urban rodeos, this regulation may do little to dissuade riders who rely on interfiling to navigate heavy traffic efficiently.

Olivier Lecomte, coordinator of the motorcyclists' federation in Indre-et-Loire, also voiced strong opposition: "I despise this decision. It will put a lot of bikers at risk. A motorbike between two cars or two trucks will be crushed in case of an accident."

What are the regulations in Luxembourg?

In Luxembourg, it is currently prohibited for motorcyclists to ride in-between lanes, even in heavy traffic. According to the Grand Ducal Police’s website, which has a dedicated page for bikers, the rule is clear: "If the traffic is moving slowly, do not overtake the queue of cars unless you can clearly see what is ahead." Motorcyclists are not allowed to overtake vehicles in traffic jams on the motorway.

If a motorcyclist maneuvers in zigzag movements between cars stuck in traffic, it is considered overtaking on the right side, which can result in a €74 fine. Additionally, depending on the situation, other penalties may apply, such as a notice for excessive speed or dangerous driving. This is according to a government source consulted by RTL.