The Motorcycle Law Pro is dedicated to informing riders about the laws that impact them. This comprehensive guide provides a 50-state overview of lane splitting and lane filtering laws, offering clarity on where these practices are permitted, restricted, or outright prohibited.

What is Lane Splitting? What is Lane Filtering?

• Lane Splitting: This generally refers to a motorcyclist riding between two lanes of moving traffic traveling in the same direction. The motorcycle typically travels at a speed greater than the surrounding traffic.
• Lane Filtering: This is a more limited practice, typically involving a motorcyclist moving between rows of stopped or very slow-moving vehicles, often at intersections or in heavy traffic congestion, at a very low speed.

The distinction is important because some states may permit lane filtering while explicitly prohibiting full lane splitting.

States Where Lane Splitting or Lane Filtering is Legal (with conditions)

• Arizona: Lane filtering is legal in Arizona under specific conditions. As of 2022, motorcycles can filter between stopped vehicles on roads with a speed limit of 45 mph or less, provided the motorcyclist does not exceed 15 mph. Lane splitting (between moving traffic) remains illegal.
• California: California is unique as the only state that broadly permits lane splitting. While there aren’t specific speed limits set by law, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) provides guidelines recommending that riders split lanes at a speed no more than 10 mph faster than surrounding traffic and only when traffic is moving at 30 mph or less. Unsafe lane splitting can still lead to citations.
• Colorado: As of August 7, 2024, Colorado has legalized lane filtering. Motorcyclists can filter when traffic is completely stopped, traveling at 15 mph or less, and passing between vehicles moving in the same direction without using the shoulder or oncoming lanes.
• Minnesota: Effective July 1, 2025, Minnesota will allow lane filtering. This is permitted when traffic is moving at 10 mph or less, and the motorcyclist does not exceed 25 mph. Drivers are prohibited from intentionally blocking filtering motorcyclists.
• Montana: Lane filtering has been legal in Montana since 2021. Motorcyclists can filter when traffic is stopped or moving at 10 mph or less, and the motorcyclist does not exceed 20 mph.
• Utah: Utah legalized lane filtering in 2019. It’s permitted when traffic is stopped, on roads with speed limits of 45 mph or less, and the motorcyclist is traveling at 15 mph or less.

States Where Lane Splitting and Lane Filtering Are Illegal or Not Addressed

Here’s a general overview of states that do not permit lane filtering or lane splitting, but always check your local and current state statutes:

• Alabama: Prohibits operating a motorcycle between lanes of traffic or between adjacent lines or rows of vehicles.
• Alaska: Does not allow lane splitting or filtering.
• Arkansas: Prohibits lane splitting.
• Connecticut: While not using the term “lane splitting,” statutes grant motorcycles full use of a lane and forbid overtaking a vehicle in the same lane or riding between lanes of traffic, making it illegal.
• Delaware: Explicitly bars operating a motorcycle between adjacent lanes or rows of vehicles.
• Florida: Generally prohibits lane splitting and filtering.
• Georgia: Prohibits lane splitting and filtering.
• Hawaii: Does not allow lane splitting or shoulder riding.
• Idaho: Does not allow lane splitting; falls under improper overtaking laws.
• Illinois: Forbids lane splitting; motorcycles are entitled to full use of a lane, and passing a vehicle in the same lane or traveling between lanes of traffic is illegal.
• Indiana: Prohibits lane splitting.
• Iowa: Prohibits lane splitting.
• Kansas: Prohibits lane splitting.
• Kentucky: Prohibits lane splitting.
• Louisiana: Prohibits lane splitting.
• Maine: Prohibits lane splitting.
• Maryland: Prohibits lane splitting, though legislation for filtering is sometimes considered.
• Massachusetts: Prohibits lane splitting, though legislation for filtering is sometimes considered.
• Michigan: Prohibits lane splitting.
• Mississippi: Prohibits lane splitting.
• Missouri: Prohibits lane splitting, though legislation for filtering is sometimes considered.
• Nebraska: Prohibits lane splitting.
• Nevada: Prohibits lane splitting.
• New Hampshire: Prohibits lane splitting.
• New Jersey: Prohibits lane splitting.
• New Mexico: Prohibits lane splitting.
• New York: Prohibits lane splitting.
• North Carolina: Prohibits lane splitting.
• North Dakota: Prohibits lane splitting.
• Ohio: Prohibits lane splitting.
• Oklahoma: Prohibits lane splitting.
• Oregon: Prohibits lane splitting, though legislation for filtering is sometimes considered.
• Pennsylvania: Prohibits lane splitting.
• Rhode Island: Prohibits lane splitting.
• South Carolina: Prohibits lane splitting.
• South Dakota: Prohibits lane splitting.
• Tennessee: Prohibits lane splitting.
• Texas: Prohibits lane splitting, though attempts to legalize it have been made.
• Vermont: Prohibits lane splitting.
• Virginia: Prohibits lane splitting, though legislation for filtering is sometimes considered.
• Washington: Prohibits lane splitting, though legislation for filtering is sometimes considered.
• West Virginia: Prohibits lane splitting.
• Wisconsin: Prohibits lane splitting.
• Wyoming: Prohibits lane splitting.

Important Note: Laws can change. While this guide provides the most up-to-date information as of mid-2025, it is always advisable to consult your state’s current Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or legislative website for the most accurate and recent legal status of lane splitting and lane filtering before engaging in these practices.

Why the Controversy? Arguments For and Against Lane Splitting

Arguments in Favor:

• Reduced Congestion: Motorcyclists can bypass gridlocked traffic, potentially reducing overall traffic jams for all vehicles.
• Improved Safety: Studies, particularly from California, suggest that lane splitting can be safer in congested traffic. It allows motorcyclists to escape the “accordion effect” of stop-and-go traffic, where they are vulnerable to rear-end collisions. It also prevents motorcycles from overheating in stagnant traffic.
• Environmental Benefits: Less idling time for motorcycles can lead to reduced emissions.
• Fuel Efficiency: Moving through traffic rather than stopping and starting can improve fuel economy.

Arguments Against:

• Perceived Danger: Many drivers feel that lane splitting is inherently dangerous, citing the proximity of motorcycles to other vehicles and the speed differential.
• Driver Confusion/Aggression: Drivers unaccustomed to or unaware of lane splitting laws may react unpredictably, sometimes even aggressively, by intentionally blocking a motorcyclist.
• Increased Risk of Accident: Opponents argue that the limited space between vehicles increases the risk of a motorcycle accident, especially if a car changes lanes unexpectedly.
• Lack of Visibility: Motorcyclists may be in blind spots, increasing the risk of being unseen by other drivers.

The Role of a Motorcycle Attorney After a Lane Splitting Accident

• Understanding Specific Laws: A knowledgeable motorcycle attorney understands the nuances of lane splitting and lane filtering laws in your state, including any specific conditions or guidelines that apply. This is critical in determining liability.
• Combating Bias: Unfortunately, there’s often a bias against motorcyclists, with some people automatically assuming the rider was at fault. An experienced motorcycle attorney will challenge these preconceived notions and work to prove negligence on the part of the other driver.
• Gathering Evidence: Your attorney will meticulously gather evidence, including police reports, witness statements, traffic camera footage, and accident reconstruction analysis, to build a strong case. This is especially important in motorcycle accident cases where the “I didn’t see them” defense is common.
• Dealing with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, especially in cases involving lane splitting. A skilled motorcycle attorney will negotiate with adjusters on your behalf, ensuring you receive fair compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, pain, and suffering.
• Proving Negligence: Even if you were lane splitting legally, another driver’s negligence (e.g., unsafe lane change, distracted driving) could be the direct cause of your motorcycle accident. Your motorcycle attorney will work to establish this negligence.
• Protecting Your Rights: From the moment of the accident, your rights are at stake. An attorney can advise you on what to say (and what not to say) to police and insurance adjusters, preventing you from inadvertently harming your case.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident (Regardless of Lane Splitting Status)

1. Ensure Safety: Move yourself and your motorcycle to a safe location if possible.
2. Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and others for injuries. Call 911 immediately if anyone is seriously hurt.
3. Contact Law Enforcement: File a police report. This report will be a crucial piece of evidence.
4. Exchange Information: Get contact and insurance information from all parties involved.
5. Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
6. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
7. Do NOT Admit Fault: Never apologize or admit fault, even if you think you might be partially to blame.
8. Contact a Motorcycle Attorney: As soon as possible, reach out to a specialized motorcycle attorney like the Motorcycle Law Pro. The sooner you do, the sooner they can begin protecting your rights and building your case.

Get back on the road with the Motorcycle Law Pro! If you or a loved one have been injured on a motorcycle, contact the Motorcycle Law Pro – your motorcycle accident attorney with over 25 years of motorcycle riding experience. Get your free consultation today!

*Motorcycle Law Pro is only licensed to practice law in california. please contact a local attorney for your state’s specific laws, regulations, and any to obtain legal advice.