Ayalon Highway Express Lane Sparks Safety Concerns for Motorcyclists
A new public transport lane on Ayalon Highway featuring yellow plastic bollards has raised serious safety concerns for motorcyclists, who warn the barriers restrict escape routes and pose fatal risks.
A new express lane on Ayalon Highway, created by converting a lane for shuttles and public transport, has introduced a severe safety hazard for motorcyclists. Spanning 60 kilometers from Rishon LeZion to Shefayim in both directions, the lane is separated by yellow plastic bollards intended to prevent unauthorized vehicles from entering.
Safety Measures and Official Stance
Gili Cohen, CEO of the National Road Safety Authority, stated that the bollards were approved by the Ministry of Transport and underwent traffic arrangement reviews. They are designed to keep road users safe by preventing unauthorized vehicles, including motorcycles and private cars, from entering the dedicated lane.
The express lane is intended for buses only. In other lanes, motorcyclists can ride freely and according to the law, emphasized Gili Cohen.
The Danger to Motorcyclists
Motorcycle advocates argue that the main issue is not riding inside the lane, but rather riding alongside it. Aviad Avrahami, editor of the motorcycle magazine FullGaz, explained that while two-wheeled riders face fewer dangers inside the lane, they are currently barred from using it.
"Anyone driving in the left lane is exposed to the risk that if they hit the bollards because a car pushed them, it is a death sentence," Avrahami said. Since the lane opened, several accidents have occurred. Motorcyclists claim that if they need to swerve to avoid a collision while riding in the adjacent left lane, the yellow posts and lack of shoulders trap them.
Engineering Perspectives and Calls for Action
Transportation engineer and road safety expert Omri Meter expressed concern over the recent accidents, noting that the bollards create a false sense of security, making riders believe they can strike them without getting hurt. Meter stressed that motorcyclists must treat the bollards as if they were solid concrete walls.
Motorcyclists are urging authorities to remove the bollards and implement alternative enforcement mechanisms. Until it becomes clear whether the new express lane will alleviate traffic congestion, a solution that prioritizes the safety of all road users remains urgently needed.
