Lane splitting is one of the most debated topics in the motorcycle world. For some riders, it’s a way to save time and stay safe by avoiding being sandwiched between vehicles in slow-moving traffic. For others, including many law enforcement agencies and lawmakers it is seen as reckless and dangerous. Whether you’re for it or against it, one thing’s certain: every rider needs to understand what the law says about lane splitting before deciding to slip between lanes as a personal injury lawyer would suggest.
Lane Splitting Legal Aspects
At its core, lane splitting, also known as lane filtering, is the practice of riding between two lanes of traffic, typically when cars are stopped or moving slowly. It’s not the same as weaving through traffic at high speeds (which is almost always illegal); lane splitting is often done cautiously in congested conditions. While it might seem like a gray area, the legality of lane splitting is very clear in most states — it’s prohibited. California is the most notable exception. In 2016, California became the first state to formally legalize the practice, offering guidelines for safe speeds and appropriate conditions. Since then, a few other states, like Arizona and Utah, have passed laws allowing similar practices in limited circumstances, typically at lower speeds or when traffic is stopped.
But in most states, lane splitting remains illegal. Riders caught doing it can face traffic citations, fines, or even more serious penalties if an accident occurs as a result. That’s why knowing your state’s specific laws is essential. Even in states where it’s allowed, lane splitting can complicate fault in an accident. If you’re hit while lane splitting, insurance companies and courts may question whether you were riding recklessly, which could reduce or even eliminate your ability to recover damages, especially in states with comparative or contributory negligence rules.
Legalities aside, there’s also the question of safety as our friends at Hayhurst Law PLLC can explain. Studies, including some from the University of California Berkeley, have shown that lane splitting at low speeds can be safer for riders than remaining stationary in stop-and-go traffic, where they risk being rear-ended. But that’s only when it’s done properly, at a moderate speed and in favorable traffic conditions. When riders split lanes too quickly, or without visibility or adequate space, they greatly increase the risk of crashes. The margin for error is slim, and the consequences can be severe.
For riders considering lane splitting, it’s important to assess more than just legal status. Consider the weather, road conditions, the size of your bike, and how aggressive nearby drivers are behaving. Some drivers may not anticipate a motorcycle coming up between lanes and could change lanes abruptly, leading to a serious collision. Wearing bright or reflective gear, using hand signals, and keeping your speed differential low are all smart ways to increase your visibility and safety if you choose to lane split in a legal area.
Ultimately, lane splitting is a personal and legal decision that should be made with full knowledge of local laws and a healthy respect for the risks involved. It might help you beat traffic — but it’s only worth it if you get to your destination safely. If you get into an accident while doing this, contact an attorney near you for help.