Lane Splitting vs Lane Filtering, Legal Differences Every Motorcycle Rider Must Know
Lane splitting means riding between moving traffic, while lane filtering refers to moving past stopped or slow vehicles. Lane splitting is legal only in California, while lane filtering is legal in Utah, Montana, Arizona, Colorado, and Minnesota as of July 2025. Understanding these distinctions is critical for riders—one practice could be perfectly legal in your state, while the other could result in a traffic citation.
Understanding the Critical Difference: Lane Splitting vs Lane Filtering
For motorcycle riders navigating America’s increasingly congested roads, the terms “lane splitting” and “lane filtering” are often used interchangeably. This confusion can be costly. While these practices may appear similar, they involve fundamentally different traffic scenarios and carry vastly different legal statuses across the United States.
Lane splitting is actually overtaking at highway speeds while filtering is weaving through slow-moving traffic or gridlock. This distinction isn’t just semantics—it’s the difference between legal riding and a traffic violation in most states.
What Is Lane Splitting? Legal Definition and Characteristics
Lane splitting is the act of operating a motorcycle between two rows of moving traffic or stopped traffic traveling in the same direction. It typically involves riding the motorcycle down the painted line dividing the lanes on either side.
Key Characteristics of Lane Splitting:
Traffic Conditions:
- Vehicles are actively moving, not stopped
- Can occur at various speeds, including highway speeds
- Typically involves riding between two lanes of flowing traffic
Speed Dynamics:
- Motorcycle travels faster than surrounding traffic
- Can involve significant speed differentials
- May occur at speeds exceeding 30-50 mph in some jurisdictions
Road Types:
- Often performed on highways and freeways
- Common in high-speed traffic situations
- Can occur on multi-lane roads with moving traffic
Legal Status:
- Legal only in California in the United States
- Prohibited in all other 49 states
- Considered a traffic violation where not explicitly authorized
What Is Lane Filtering? Legal Definition and Requirements
Lane filtering is seen as slightly less risky and is legalized in more areas than lane splitting because it typically occurs at lower speeds and in specific scenarios like traffic lights.
Key Characteristics of Lane Filtering:
Traffic Conditions:
- Vehicles must be completely stopped or moving very slowly
- Typically occurs at intersections or in congested traffic
- Limited to situations where surrounding traffic is at a standstill
Speed Restrictions:
- Strict maximum speed limits (typically 15 mph or less)
- Lower risk due to reduced speed differentials
- Designed for low-speed maneuvering only
Road Types:
- Usually restricted to roads with speed limits of 45 mph or less
- Not permitted on highways or freeways
- Limited to specific urban and suburban settings
Legal Status:
- Legal in Utah (2019), Montana (2021), Arizona (2022), Colorado (2024), and Minnesota (July 1, 2025)
- Subject to strict conditions and requirements
- Regulations vary significantly by state
State-by-State Legal Analysis: Where Each Practice Is Permitted
California: The Only Lane Splitting State
Legal Status: Full lane splitting authorized
California stands alone as the only U.S. state where traditional lane splitting is explicitly legal. The practice was formally legalized in 2016 through Assembly Bill 51 (AB-51), which codified what had been a long-accepted practice in the state.
California Lane Splitting Guidelines:
- No specific speed limit, but riders must act “safely and prudently”
- California Highway Patrol recommends not exceeding 10 mph faster than traffic
- Legal at highway speeds when performed safely
- Applies to all road types where safe and prudent
Important Note: While California permits lane splitting, riders can still be cited for unsafe riding practices or excessive speed differentials.
Colorado: Lane Filtering Legal, Lane Splitting Prohibited
Legal Status: Lane filtering authorized; lane splitting remains illegal
On August 7, 2024, Colorado officially legalized the practice of lane filtering throughout the state — allowing riders to filter through stopped traffic at 15 miles per hour or less.
Colorado Lane Filtering Requirements:
Five specific conditions must be met:
- Traffic in the rider’s lane and adjacent lanes must be at a complete stop
- The lane must be wide enough to fit both the vehicle and motorcycle while passing
- The motorcycle must travel at 15 mph or less
- Riders must stay within the same lane (not cross lane markings)
- Adequate space must exist for safe passing
What’s Still Illegal in Colorado:
Lane splitting—riding between moving traffic—remains prohibited in Colorado. Motorcyclists caught splitting lanes with moving traffic can face citations and fines.
Colorado Department of Transportation Guidance:
The law emphasizes that it’s up to the rider to assess each situation and determine if conditions are safe and legal to filter—filtering is an option, not a requirement.
Utah: Pioneering Lane Filtering Legislation
Legal Status: Lane filtering authorized since 2019; lane splitting prohibited
Utah became the first state after California to legalize any form of lane maneuvering, implementing lane filtering laws in 2019.
Utah Lane Filtering Legal Requirements:
Lane filtering is legal in Utah anywhere the posted speed limit is 45 mph or less. This means it is never legal on the freeway. Motorcycle speeds cannot be more than 15 mph when filtering.
Specific Conditions Under Utah Law:
Motorcyclists may filter when:
- On a roadway divided into two or more adjacent traffic lanes in the same direction
- On a roadway with a speed limit of 45 mph or less
- The vehicle being overtaken in the same lane is stopped
- The motorcycle is traveling at a speed of 15 mph or less
Where Utah Riders Cannot Filter:
- Freeways and highways (speed limits typically exceed 45 mph)
- Single-lane roads
- When traffic is moving
- At speeds exceeding 15 mph
Arizona: Controlled Lane Filtering Permissions
Legal Status: Lane filtering legal since 2022; lane splitting prohibited
Arizona joined the lane filtering movement in 2022, implementing regulations similar to Utah’s framework.
Arizona Lane Filtering Requirements:
- Only legal on roads with posted speed limits of 45 mph or less
- Traffic must be moving at 15 mph or slower
- Motorcyclists cannot exceed 15 mph while filtering
- Adequate lane width required for safe passage
Arizona’s Approach: Arizona’s law emphasizes safety by limiting filtering to very specific low-speed scenarios, reducing the risk of accidents while still providing congestion relief for riders.
Montana: Conservative Lane Filtering Authorization
Legal Status: Lane filtering permitted since 2021; lane splitting prohibited
Montana adopted lane filtering legislation in 2021, joining Utah and Arizona in permitting controlled lane maneuvering.
Montana Lane Filtering Parameters:
- Traffic must be stopped or moving very slowly
- Speed restrictions apply (typically 15 mph maximum)
- Only allowed under specific traffic conditions
- Riders must exercise extreme caution
Minnesota: The Newest Lane Filtering State
Legal Status: Lane filtering and limited lane splitting authorized as of July 1, 2025
Minnesota became the newest state to legalize lane filtering as of July 1, 2025. The state’s legislation represents one of the most recent developments in motorcycle lane maneuvering laws.
Minnesota Lane Filtering Requirements:
- Speed limitations apply to when and where lane sharing can be performed
- Motorcyclists must not exceed 15 mph over the speed of traffic
- Specific conditions must be met for legal lane maneuvering
- Safety-focused implementation with clear guidelines
States Where Both Practices Are Prohibited
The remaining 44 U.S. states prohibit both lane splitting and lane filtering. In these jurisdictions, motorcycles must occupy a full lane of traffic and cannot ride between lanes, regardless of whether traffic is moving or stopped.
States with Complete Prohibitions Include:
- Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware
- Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois
- Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana
- Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi
- Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey
- New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio
- Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina
- South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia
- Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming
Why the Legal Distinction Matters: Practical Implications for Riders
Safety Considerations
Lane Filtering Safety Profile: Lane filtering is seen as slightly less risky because it typically occurs at lower speeds and in specific scenarios like traffic lights. The controlled nature of filtering—with stopped traffic and low motorcycle speeds—reduces collision risks.
Lane Splitting Safety Concerns: Higher speed differentials in lane splitting create more complex safety challenges, including:
- Reduced reaction time for riders and drivers
- Greater impact forces in the event of collision
- More limited escape routes at higher speeds
- Increased difficulty predicting driver behavior
Legal Liability in Accidents
In States Where Filtering Is Legal: If a motorcyclist follows all legal requirements for lane filtering and is involved in an accident, liability determination will consider:
- Whether the rider complied with speed limits
- Whether traffic was completely stopped (where required)
- Whether adequate space existed for safe passage
- Whether the rider exercised reasonable care
In States Where Both Are Prohibited: Motorcyclists engaging in either practice in states where they’re illegal face significant legal vulnerabilities:
- Automatic assumption of fault or contributory negligence
- Denial of insurance claims
- Criminal traffic violations
- Potential license suspension
Insurance Implications
Coverage Considerations: Insurance companies may deny or reduce claims if a motorcyclist was lane splitting or filtering in violation of state law. Even in states where filtering is legal, riders must comply with all requirements to maintain coverage.
Premium Impacts: Traffic citations for illegal lane splitting or filtering can result in:
- Increased insurance premiums
- Policy non-renewal
- Difficulty obtaining coverage
- Higher deductibles
Common Legal Questions: Lane Splitting vs Lane Filtering
Is lane filtering legal in the USA?
Yes, but only in six states. Lane filtering is legal in Utah (2019), Montana (2021), Arizona (2022), Colorado (2024), and Minnesota (as of July 1, 2025). Each state has specific requirements regarding speed limits, traffic conditions, and permissible locations.
Can I lane filter on the highway?
Generally, no. Most states with lane filtering laws restrict the practice to roads with speed limits of 45 mph or less. In Utah, filtering is never legal on the freeway. Highways and freeways typically exceed these speed limits, making lane filtering illegal on these roadways.
What’s the speed limit for lane filtering?
The maximum speed varies by state but is typically 15 mph:
- Utah: 15 mph maximum
- Colorado: 15 mph maximum
- Arizona: 15 mph maximum
- Montana: 15 mph maximum (typically)
- Minnesota: Cannot exceed 15 mph over the speed of traffic
Is lane splitting legal in Colorado?
No, lane splitting is prohibited in Colorado. However, Colorado legalized lane filtering on August 7, 2024, allowing riders to filter through stopped traffic at 15 miles per hour or less.
It’s critical for Colorado riders to understand this distinction. Riding between moving traffic (lane splitting) remains illegal and will result in citations, while filtering between stopped vehicles under proper conditions is legal.
Can I lane filter at a red light?
In states where lane filtering is legal, yes—red lights are one of the primary scenarios where filtering is permitted. However, you must ensure:
- All traffic is completely stopped
- You don’t exceed the maximum speed limit (typically 15 mph)
- Adequate space exists for safe passage
- The road meets posted speed limit requirements (45 mph or less in most states)
What happens if I get in an accident while lane filtering?
Even in states where lane filtering is legal, accidents are treated like any other traffic incident. If you were following all legal requirements for filtering, you may not be automatically at fault. However, if you violated any conditions (exceeding speed limits, filtering where prohibited, etc.), you may bear partial or full liability.
In states where filtering is illegal, engaging in the practice likely establishes contributory negligence or fault.
Are there penalties for illegal lane splitting or filtering?
Yes. Penalties vary by state but typically include:
Traffic Citations:
- Fines ranging from $100 to $500 or more
- Points added to your driving record
- Court appearances may be required
License Consequences:
- Points accumulation toward suspension
- Potential motorcycle endorsement suspension
- Mandatory traffic school
Insurance Ramifications:
- Premium increases
- Potential policy cancellation
- Difficulty obtaining future coverage
Why is lane splitting only legal in California?
California has a unique history with lane splitting. The practice was common and tolerated for decades before formal legalization in 2016. California’s traffic congestion, motorcycle culture, and legislative willingness to regulate rather than prohibit the practice set it apart from other states.
Other states have been more conservative, focusing on the more restricted practice of lane filtering rather than full lane splitting.
Will more states legalize lane splitting or filtering?
The trend suggests more states may adopt lane filtering laws. Five states have legalized lane filtering since 2019, with Minnesota being the most recent in July 2025. Several other states are currently considering legislation.
However, full lane splitting (as practiced in California) faces more significant legal and political hurdles in other states.
Practical Guidance for Motorcycle Riders
Before You Ride: Know Your State’s Laws
Research Requirements:
- Verify whether your state permits lane filtering or splitting
- Understand specific speed limits and restrictions
- Know which road types allow the practice
- Familiarize yourself with traffic conditions that must be met
Interstate Travel: If you ride through multiple states, research laws in each jurisdiction. A practice that’s legal at home may be prohibited across state lines.
Best Practices for Legal Lane Filtering
When Filtering Is Permitted:
Assess Each Situation: It’s up to the rider to assess each situation and determine if conditions are safe and legal to filter. Legal permission doesn’t mean filtering is always the right choice.
Follow Speed Limits Strictly: Even if traffic is stopped, exceeding 15 mph (or your state’s limit) makes filtering illegal and unsafe.
Check Lane Width: Riders must ensure that there is enough room for them to pass on the left side of the vehicle while staying in the same lane. If space is inadequate, don’t filter.
Watch for Driver Behavior:
- Monitor turn signals
- Watch for vehicles preparing to change lanes
- Be alert for drivers opening doors
- Anticipate sudden movements
Maintain Visibility:
- Use headlights
- Wear high-visibility gear
- Position yourself where drivers can see you
- Avoid blind spots
When to Avoid Filtering (Even Where Legal)
Poor Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, or ice makes filtering significantly more dangerous, even when legally permitted.
Heavy Pedestrian Traffic: At intersections with crossing pedestrians, filtering can create confusion and collision risks.
Narrow Lanes: If lanes are too narrow for safe passage, skip filtering regardless of legal permission.
Aggressive Traffic: When drivers are making frequent lane changes or behaving unpredictably, filtering increases collision risks.
Poor Visibility: At night, in fog, or in other low-visibility conditions, filtering is more hazardous.
Safety Technology and Lane Filtering
Modern Motorcycle Safety Features
Advanced Rider Assistance Systems (ARAS): Newer motorcycles include technology that can assist with lane filtering:
- Blind spot detection
- Forward collision warning
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane departure warning
How Technology Helps: These systems can alert riders to vehicles in adjacent lanes, approaching hazards, or unsafe filtering conditions.
Limitations: Technology assists but doesn’t replace rider judgment. Always assess conditions independently.
Protective Gear for Urban Riding
Essential Equipment:
- Full-face helmet with clear visor
- High-visibility jacket or vest
- Armored gloves for hand protection
- Protective pants with knee armor
- Quality boots with ankle protection
Why Gear Matters for Filtering: Low-speed filtering can still result in falls or collisions. Proper gear provides critical protection even at reduced speeds.
The Future of Lane Splitting and Filtering Legislation
Current Legislative Trends
Growing Acceptance: The steady expansion of lane filtering laws suggests growing acceptance of the practice. Six states now permit some form of lane maneuvering, up from just one state (California) a decade ago.
Factors Driving Change:
- Increasing traffic congestion in urban areas
- Growing motorcycle ridership
- Safety research supporting filtering benefits
- Rider advocacy efforts
- Environmental considerations
Pending Legislation in Other States
Several states are currently considering lane filtering bills:
- Connecticut (Senate Bill 1083 in 2025)
- Washington
- Virginia
- Texas
- Oregon
Barriers to Broader Adoption
Public Perception: Many drivers view lane splitting and filtering as dangerous or unfair “line cutting.”
Legislative Caution: Lawmakers often hesitate to authorize practices that differ from traditional traffic patterns.
Law Enforcement Concerns: Police departments may express concerns about enforcement complexity and safety risks.
Insurance Industry Opposition: Insurers sometimes oppose legislation due to concerns about increased accident claims.
Resources for Staying Current on Lane Splitting Laws
Official Government Sources
State Department of Motor Vehicles: Each state DMV provides current traffic laws and motorcycle regulations. Check your state’s DMV website regularly for updates.
State Legislature Websites: Track pending legislation and recently passed laws affecting motorcycle riders.
State Highway Patrol/Police: Many state law enforcement agencies publish guidance on lane filtering and splitting regulations.
Motorcycle Advocacy Organizations
American Motorcyclist Association (AMA):
- National advocacy for rider rights
- Legislative tracking and updates
- Safety resources and training
- State-by-state law summaries
State Motorcycle Rights Organizations: Local groups provide state-specific information and advocacy.
Legal Resources
Traffic Law Attorneys: Consult attorneys specializing in motorcycle law for:
- State-specific legal advice
- Defense against traffic citations
- Accident representation
- Insurance disputes
Legal Aid Organizations: Some organizations provide free or low-cost legal information for riders.
Key Takeaways: What Every Rider Must Know
Understanding the Distinction: Lane splitting means riding between moving traffic, while lane filtering refers to moving past stopped or slow vehicles. This distinction determines legality in most states.
Legal Status:
- Lane splitting is legal only in California
- Lane filtering is legal in Utah (2019), Montana (2021), Arizona (2022), Colorado (2024), and Minnesota (as of July 1, 2025)
- Both practices are prohibited in the remaining 44 states
Critical Requirements: Where filtering is legal, strict conditions apply:
- Traffic must be stopped (in most states)
- Maximum speeds of 15 mph typically apply
- Road speed limits usually must be 45 mph or less
- Adequate lane width is required
Safety First: Legal permission doesn’t mean filtering is always safe or appropriate. Riders must assess each situation independently.
Stay Informed: Laws change frequently. Verify current regulations in your state and any states you plan to travel through.
Conclusion: Navigating the Legal Landscape Safely
The legal distinction between lane splitting and lane filtering represents more than just legal semantics—it’s a critical knowledge gap that can determine whether your ride is legal or results in a costly citation. Lane filtering is legalized in more areas than lane splitting because it typically occurs at lower speeds and in specific scenarios.
For riders, the path forward is clear:
- Know your state’s specific laws regarding both practices
- Understand the requirements for legal lane filtering where permitted
- Never assume practices legal in one state are permitted in another
- Prioritize safety over convenience, even where filtering is legal
- Stay current on legislative changes affecting motorcycle laws
Whether you’re a daily commuter in a filtering-legal state or a touring rider crossing multiple jurisdictions, understanding these distinctions protects both your legal standing and your safety on the road.
The evolution of lane filtering laws suggests a future where more states may authorize controlled lane maneuvering. Until then, riders must navigate a complex patchwork of regulations where the difference between legal filtering and illegal splitting can be the difference between a smooth commute and a traffic court appearance.
Important Legal Disclaimer
This article is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Motorcycle traffic laws vary significantly by jurisdiction and change frequently. The information presented reflects publicly available information as of October 2025 but may not represent current legal requirements in your specific area.
Before engaging in lane splitting or lane filtering:
- Verify current laws in your state and municipality
- Consult official state Department of Motor Vehicles resources
- Consider consulting a qualified traffic attorney for legal advice
- Check with your insurance provider regarding coverage implications
- Review your motorcycle’s operator manual for safety recommendations
Individual circumstances vary, and legal outcomes depend on numerous factors. Always prioritize safety and legal compliance when operating a motorcycle. If you receive a traffic citation or are involved in an accident related to lane splitting or filtering, immediately consult an attorney specializing in motorcycle law in your jurisdiction.
Laws and regulations are subject to change. The legislative landscape for motorcycle lane maneuvering continues to evolve. Riders are responsible for staying informed about current laws in their jurisdiction and any states they travel through.
This article does not create an attorney-client relationship. For specific legal advice regarding your situation, consult a licensed attorney in your state.
Last Updated: October 2025
Primary Sources: State Department of Motor Vehicles records, State Highway Patrol agencies, State Legislature records, American Motorcyclist Association, Colorado State Patrol, Utah Highway Patrol, Colorado Department of Transportation
Note: This guide serves as an educational resource for understanding the legal distinctions between lane splitting and lane filtering. Riders must independently verify current laws and exercise sound judgment when operating motorcycles in any traffic condition.
About the Author
Sarah Klein, JD, is a licensed attorney and legal content strategist with over 12 years of experience across civil, criminal, family, and regulatory law. At All About Lawyer, she covers a wide range of legal topics — from high-profile lawsuits and courtroom stories to state traffic laws and everyday legal questions — all with a focus on accuracy, clarity, and public understanding.
Her writing blends real legal insight with plain-English explanations, helping readers stay informed and legally aware.
Read more about Sarah