Mark Casto | October 30, 2025 | Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Near Columbus, Georgia
If you’ve ever seen a motorcycle zip between slow or stopped traffic, you’ve likely witnessed lane splitting or lane filtering. These terms are often used interchangeably, but they describe slightly different actions. Whether or not they’re legal depends on where you are. This guide explains what lane splitting and filtering mean and where lane splitting & filtering are legal in the following states across the U.S.
What Is Lane Splitting?
Lane splitting happens when a motorcyclist rides between lanes of traffic moving in the same direction, usually during congestion. It’s common in other parts of the world, especially in Europe and Asia, but in the U.S., most states prohibit it.
Riders often use lane splitting to save time and avoid being stuck in stop-and-go traffic, but it can also increase the risk of collisions with cars that change lanes unexpectedly.
What Is Lane Filtering?
Lane filtering is similar but usually refers to a motorcyclist moving between vehicles that are stopped or moving slowly, often at a red light or in heavy traffic. It’s generally seen as a lower-speed, safer version of lane splitting. When performed carefully, lane filtering can help reduce congestion and prevent motorcycles from being rear-ended in heavy traffic situations.
Where Is Lane Splitting Legal?
California is currently the only U.S. state where lane splitting is explicitly legal. The practice was officially recognized in 2016 when the state added language to the vehicle code acknowledging it. California’s Highway Patrol also offers safety tips and guidelines for doing it properly.
In California, lane splitting is legal on roads with two or more lanes in the same direction. However, it’s safest at lower speeds or when traffic is congested. Motorcyclists are still expected to ride responsibly and avoid unsafe weaving.
What About Lane Filtering?
A few states are now allowing lane filtering, especially in certain areas or under specific conditions:
- Utah: Lane filtering is legal when traffic is stopped, the road has two or more lanes in the same direction, and the motorcycle does not exceed 15 mph.
- Montana: As of 2021, Montana allows motorcyclists to filter between stopped or slow-moving vehicles under certain conditions.
- Arizona: Lane filtering became legal in 2022 for motorcycles on roads with a speed limit of 45 mph or less when traffic is stopped.
These laws vary in scope, so it’s important to know the exact rules in each state.
States Considering Legalization
Several other states have introduced legislation or pilot programs that explore legalizing lane filtering or splitting.
These include:
- Hawaii
- Virginia
- Texas
- Oregon
- Connecticut
None have passed full laws yet, but rider advocacy groups continue to push for change.
Is Lane Splitting Legal in Georgia?
No, Georgia does not allow lane splitting or lane filtering. Under Georgia Code § 40-6-312, motorcyclists must stay within a single lane and are not allowed to operate between lanes or rows of vehicles.
Violating this law could lead to a citation, and if you’re involved in a crash while splitting lanes, liability could fall on you, even if the other driver was also liable.
Why Does Lane Splitting Matter?
Motorcyclists argue that lane splitting helps:
- Reduce rear-end collisions
- Ease traffic congestion
- Keep riders safer in stop-and-go conditions
Opponents worry about safety, visibility, and the potential for accidents if a driver changes lanes unexpectedly.
Contact the Columbus Motorcycle Accident Attorney at Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm for Help Today
Whether it’s legal or not, lane splitting can be risky and lead to severe crashes. Always check your state’s motorcycle laws before attempting it.
If you’ve been injured in a lane-splitting or lane-filtering accident in Georgia, contact the motorcycle accident lawyer at Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your legal options, and help you recover the compensation you deserve.
If you were injured in an accident in Columbus, GA, and need legal help, contact our Columbus motorcycle accident lawyers at Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm to schedule a free case review today.
Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm
233 12th St #808, Columbus, GA 31901
(706) 940-4030