staff@slashgear.com (John Davis)
2024-04-11 14:15:44
www.slashgear.com
Lane splitting is illegal in most of the United States. The act is legal in California on all roads, but The Golden State does include a few additional guidelines for riders. The state encourages riders to drive no more than 10 mph faster than the cars around them and discourages motorcyclists from lane splitting at speeds greater than 30 mph. It also adds that the safest area for lane splitting is between the far left lane and the lane to its right — or between the left and middle lanes on a three-lane highway. Finally, the California DMV also recommends that riders avoid lane splitting near off- or on-ramps on the interstate.
Outside of California, some states don’t yet have laws regarding lane splitting, but some are starting to establish rules around lane filtering. States like Utah, Arizona, and Montana just recently created laws surrounding lane filtering within the last few years. Within the states that allow lane filtering, the regulations vary.
For example, Hawaii only allows motorcyclists to use the shoulder to go around stopped motorists, and it does not allow riders to drive in between lanes. If you live in one of these states, you should check your local laws to determine the exact guidelines you must follow. Lane splitting is still illegal in much of the U.S., and if you get caught lane splitting in one of these states, the penalties can be harsh.