Motorcycle · Lane Positioning and SEE Strategy

Is 'lane splitting' (riding between lanes of slow or stopped traffic) legal in the US?

  1. A Yes, everywhere in the US
  2. B Lane splitting is legal in California, with several other states having recently legalized 'lane filtering' under more limited conditions; it remains illegal in most US states
  3. C Never legal in any state
  4. D Only legal at night

Why this is the answer

Lane splitting is the practice of a motorcycle riding between lanes of slow or stopped traffic — common in many countries but historically illegal in most US states. California has long allowed it. As of 2024, a handful of other states have legalized 'lane filtering' under more limited conditions (only at very low speeds, only when traffic is fully stopped, only between specific lanes). It remains illegal in most US states. Always check the specific law in your state and any state you ride through. Even where legal, lane splitting requires caution: drivers may change lanes unexpectedly, doors may open, and the practice surprises drivers who do not expect a motorcycle between lanes. Speed differential to surrounding traffic should be small (10-15 mph above traffic speed is the recommended maximum).
Source: MSF Basic RiderCourse, Lane Splitting

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