Whenever taking to the road safety is often at the forefront on riders mind, maybe even more so when riding in a group. Staying together on a long ride can be challenging when maneuvering through city streets and intersections. One solution motorcyclists have found to be helpful is ‘blocking.' However, this technique is actually not legal.
The way this works is a ‘blocker' is designated within the riding group, and typically rides at the back. When approaching what looks to be a dangerous stretch or busy intersection that could break up the group, the blocker pulls out to the front and blocks other oncoming traffic so that the group may proceed through as one unit.
Although this may seem like a safe alternative to splitting up the group when traffic calls for it, it's technically not legal. As Sgt. Daniel Larkin explains of Loudonville, New York, “only emergency personnel, people involved in highway repairs, and crossing guards can legally interfere with traffic,” (Getting There: Law doesn't give motorcycle ‘blockers' right to stop traffic, Tim O'Brien, Times Union, http://www.timesunion.com/local/article/Getting-There-Law-doesn-t-give-motorcycle-3708931.php).
It is possible to be ticketed for blocking and potentially face civil liability if an accident does result from the directing of traffic. Another reason blocking is frowned upon by authorities is because blockers may not have the equipment or training that is typically utilized when directing traffic. Besides not having legal authority to direct traffic, safety remains to be a concern. Motorists still may not see or obey a blocker, nor understand what is going on and proceed anyway.
Of course, there are exceptions. For example, groups riding for an event or marathon can obtain a permit to block. In order to receive a permit a group must go through the Department of Transportation. The permit will include an endorsement from the police, local authorities, and insurance.
All-in-all blocking as Lenny Parker, safety officer for the Albany-Schenectady Hog Club, clarifies is, “not done to be obnoxious, but it's safer to block the road so people don't get into the middle of a group of motorcyclists. Sometimes it's done to be safe,” (Getting There: Law doesn't give motorcycle ‘blockers' right to stop traffic, Tim O'Brien, Times Union).
| 
