Motorcyclists know the joy and freedom that comes with hitting the open road. Navigating traffic presents unique challenges, and many riders consider lane splitting as a potential solution to congestion. However, the legality of lane splitting varies, and in the Midwest, the rules can differ drastically by state.
Before you take the risk of splitting lanes, make sure you know your state’s lane-splitting laws. If you’re involved in an accident, this can greatly impact who bears the weight of liability. Be safe, and make sure you’re following the laws in your state.
What Is Lane Splitting?
Lane splitting is the act of riding a motorcycle between two lanes of moving traffic to pass vehicles. While this practice can help you cut through traffic and save time, it is a controversial subject due to safety concerns. Lane splitting is often confused with lane filtering, which involves motorcycles maneuvering between vehicles only when traffic is at a complete stop.
Read More: Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Where Is Lane Splitting Legal?
Missouri Lane Splitting Laws
Missouri does not have a specific law addressing lane splitting. According to Missouri State Statute 304.015, motorcyclists are required to stay in their lane unless it is safe to change lanes. This leaves some room for interpretation, making lane splitting neither fully legal nor explicitly prohibited.
So, while it may not be explicitly prohibited, motorcyclists should still be cautious as it could lead to injuries and legal troubles.
Kansas Lane Splitting Laws
As stated in K.S.A. 8-1595, lane splitting is illegal in Kansas. Motorcyclists must follow the traffic laws, which require them to remain within their designated lanes regardless of traffic conditions. Passing between lanes is not allowed. Violating this law can result in fines and potential insurance increases for riders.
Illinois Lane Splitting Laws
Under the Illinois Vehicle Code, lane splitting is explicitly illegal. The law prohibits motorcyclists from passing between two vehicles in adjacent lanes, as defined by statute 625 ILCS 5/11-703. Riders caught lane splitting may face penalties, ranging from Class A misdemeanors to Class C felonies if bodily injuries result from an accident.
Illinois also prohibits other practices meant to bypass traffic, emphasizing the importance of motorcyclists staying within their designated lanes.
Oklahoma Lane Splitting Laws
Oklahoma Statute 47-11-1103 states that lane splitting is illegal in Oklahoma, and motorcyclists must remain in their lanes at all times. Riding between cars is not permitted, even in stopped or slow-moving traffic. Violations of these laws can lead to fines, points on a driving record, and increased insurance premiums.
Oklahoma law prioritizes the safety of both drivers and motorcyclists, citing the inherent risks that lane splitting poses, even in stationary traffic.
Colorado Lane Splitting Laws
Lane splitting is prohibited in Colorado. However, starting August 7, 2024, the state legalized lane filtering under specific conditions. Lane filtering is similar to lane splitting but only applies when traffic is at a complete stop. Right now, motorcyclists in Colorado are allowed to:
- Pass vehicles only when traffic is fully stopped.
- Maintain a speed of 15 mph or less when passing.
- Ensure the lane provides adequate space for safe passage.
- Avoid entering oncoming traffic lanes.
- Pass only on the left side of stopped vehicles.
Although Colorado restricts lane splitting, the allowance for controlled lane filtering offers motorcyclists a safer alternative in stop-and-go traffic situations.
The Dangers of Lane Splitting
While lane splitting can save you time, it is also incredibly risky. You should keep the following factors in mind when riding your bike:
- Limited Visibility: Drivers may not anticipate motorcyclists riding between lanes, increasing the chance of collisions.
- Restricted Space: Maneuvering between vehicles can create tight spaces, leaving riders with little room for error.
- Driver Reactions: Motorists may become startled or even deliberately obstruct a rider attempting to split lanes.
- Sudden Lane Changes: Unpredictable lane shifts by other vehicles can catch motorcyclists off guard, causing accidents.
The combination of these factors contributes to the controversy surrounding lane splitting, even in states where it’s legal.
Read More: How Motorcyclists Can Make Themselves More Visible
Common Injuries from Motorcycle Crashes
Motorcycle crashes, particularly those caused by lane splitting, can result in catastrophic injuries due to the lack of physical protection for riders. The most common injuries include:
- Head Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries are among the most serious consequences of motorcycle accidents, even for riders who wear helmets.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Injuries to your neck or back can lead to long-term disabilities, including paralysis.
- Broken Bones: Motorcycles offer little protection, making it easier to break multiple bones, including your arms, legs, and ribs.
- Road Rash: This refers to severe abrasions that occur when a person slides across the pavement.
- Internal Injuries: These are injuries that involve damage to internal organs caused by the impact of a crash.
Read More: Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident
Injured in a Motorcycle Accident? Mike’s Got This!
Understanding lane-splitting laws in your state is critical to ensure both your safety and your compliance with the law. However, if you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, tell our motorcycle accident lawyers your story.
We at DM Injury Law have a full staff of attorneys, intake specialists, investigators, medical record specialists, and settlement specialists who will assist you throughout the duration of your case.
We have offices all over the Midwest, including:
We also take cases in Nebraska.
Schedule your free consultation today to tell us your story. We are a contingency-fee-based law firm, which means you don’t pay us unless we win your case.