Why is lane splitting considered a risky maneuver?

Lane splitting is considered a risky maneuver primarily because it can be unpredictable. When a motorcyclist maneuvers between lanes of slow or stopped traffic, the actions of other drivers can be difficult to anticipate. Vehicles may suddenly change lanes, open doors, or fail to notice the motorcyclist in a tight space. This unpredictability increases the chances of accidents because the riders must be extremely vigilant and responsive to the movements of surrounding vehicles that may not be expecting a motorcycle to be navigating through the lines of cars.

The other options do not accurately represent the inherent risks associated with lane splitting. For instance, while some may believe it slows down traffic, the actual effect depends on the flow of both motorcycles and cars; it's not a guaranteed outcome. It's also incorrect to state that lane splitting is always allowed, as its legality varies widely by state and region. Finally, while lane splitting may at times improve riding efficiency by allowing motorcyclists to bypass traffic, this advantage does not mitigate the risks involved in executing this maneuver amidst unpredictable vehicular behavior.