Where Is Lane-Splitting Legal?

California is the only state that allows lane splitting. Lane splitting is when a motorcyclist can ride between two vehicles heading in the same direction. One of the main reasons for lane splitting in California is its ability to reduce traffic congestion, a desirable outcome in large cities.

Although lane splitting guidelines by the California Highway Patrol have no speed limits, motorists are advised to avoid lane splitting when the surrounding traffic is moving faster than 30mph.

Motorcyclists who intend to split lanes must do so carefully and only when it is safe to complete the maneuver. They should also avoid lane splitting on ramps, freeways, and on-ramps.

More importantly, it is illegal for another driver to impede or block riders from lane splitting by blocking the road with the vehicle or door.

If you or a loved one have been involved in a motorcycle accident, contact  a motorcycle accident attorney for legal support today. It could be the best call you make.

What’s the Difference Between Lane Splitting and Lane Filtering?

Lane filtering occurs when a motorcycle rider moves alongside a vehicle that has either stopped or is moving slowly. On the contrary, lane splitting occurs when a motorcycle rider maneuvers between two slow-moving cars.

Unlike lane splitting, which allows a motorcycle rider to navigate between rows of vehicles moving at a constant speed, lane filtering enables the motorcyclist to navigate between rows of stationary or slow-moving vehicles.

Lane filtering is mainly observed at stop lights, allowing the motorcyclists to move at the front of the line and take off without being sandwiched between two vehicles.

Lane Splitting Laws By State

Lane Filtering in Utah

In May 2019, the Utah Legislature passed a bill that allowed motorists to filter lanes.

Here are the guidelines for lane filtering in Utah:

• Lane filtering is only legal in Utah, in areas where the posted speed limit is 45 mph or less, ruling out its application on a freeway.
• Motorcycle speeds should not be more than 15 mph when filtering.
• Lane splitting is only legal on a road where two or more lanes are heading in the same direction.

More importantly, lane filtering is only allowed when traffic stops; once traffic resumes moving, the motorcyclists must return to the lane as soon as possible.

Lane Splitting in Montana

On October 1, 2021, Montana became the third state to pass lane-filtering regulations.

Per 61-8-392, an operator of a two-wheeled motorcycle may engage in lane filtering when:

• When the rider of a two-wheeled bike is on a road with wide lanes enough for safe passage
• The overtaking motorcycle is not operated at a speed above 20mph when passing a slow or stopped vehicle
• Conditions allow prudent and reasonable operation of the bike while lane filtering

According to lane filtering laws in Montana, “lane filtering” means overtaking and passing another vehicle that has stopped or traveling at a speed not more than 10 miles an hour in the same direction and lane.

Lane Splitting in New York

Due to the heavy congestion experienced on New York roads, motorcyclists may feel the urge to split lanes. However, it is illegal for motorcyclists to move between two rows of moving traffic. New York explicitly outlaws (VAT/1252) lane splitting.

Here are the applicable laws for lane splitting in NY:

• No person shall operate a motorcycle between two traffic lanes or adjacent rows of vehicles.
• All motorcycles are entitled to full use of a lane, and no vehicle or motorcycle should be driven in a manner that deprives a motorcycle operator of full use of the lane. However, it doesn’t prohibit two motorcycles from being operated two abreast in a single lane.
• The operator of a motorcycle shall not pass or overtake in the same lane occupied by the other vehicle it intends to overtake
• Motorcyclists should operate at most two abreast in the same lane.

Lane Splitting Accidents

Lane splitting can cause motorcycle accidents if it is not done safely. It can also result in accidents because drivers do not expect another vehicle to overtake them during the traffic snarl-up, plus a shrunk space to make the maneuvers.

A lane-splitting accident occurs in any of the following ways:

• A car hits a motorcycle
• A motorcycle crashes into a vehicle
• The lane-splitting rider escapes unhurt but causes other cars to collide.

Victims of lane-splitting accidents suffer various injuries, including internal bleeding, broken bones, concussions, lacerations, whiplash, and spinal cord injuries.

Lane-Splitting Safety Rules

If lane splitting or filtering is legal in your state, here are a few tips to keep in mind for your safety:

• The faster your speed, the more dangerous lane splitting becomes
• Stay alert of your surroundings, which includes weather, road conditions, and vehicles
• When the vehicles are moving  at a faster speed, there’s an increased risk of a crash
• Riding on the shoulder is illegal and doesn’t count as lane-splitting
• Avoid splitting next to large vehicles, including 18-wheeler trucks or motorhomes
• Do not speed more than necessary time on blind spots of vehicles
• Enhance your visibility on the road by wearing brightly colored protective gear, including a helmet, and putting on high beams during daylight.

Get Legal Assistance From an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Attorney

If you suffered injuries in a lane splitting motorcycle accident that was someone else’s fault, you may face medical bills, lost income, emotional anguish, and pain and suffering.

Your case deserves representation from an experienced attorney who’ll aggressively fight to protect your rights. The Barnes Firm has represented injured victims in over 150,000 cases, and we are ready to represent you. Contact us online or at (800) 800-0000  for a free case evaluation.

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