Is Lane Splitting Legal in Texas?

If you’ve ever seen a motorcycle zip between cars during traffic jams, you’ve witnessed what’s known as lane splitting. It’s a maneuver that allows motorcyclists to ride between lanes of traffic to avoid congestion. But here’s the bottom line for Texas riders—lane splitting is illegal in Texas.

Understanding the laws around motorcycle riding isn’t just about avoiding tickets. It could be the difference between staying safe and getting into a serious accident. Whether you’re a new rider or a seasoned motorcyclist, this guide explains what Texas law says about lane splitting, why it’s banned, and what your options are if you’re involved in a motorcycle accident.

Understanding Lane Splitting and Related Terms

What Is Lane Splitting?

Lane splitting refers to the practice of a motorcyclist riding between two lanes of traffic moving in the same direction. For example, in stopped traffic or heavy traffic, a motorcyclist may try to ride between lanes of traffic to bypass congestion. While it might seem like a convenient way to move forward, it’s a maneuver that comes with both legal and safety concerns.

This technique often takes place when motorcycles pass between slow-moving or stopped vehicles, especially on highways or during rush hour. While it’s common in some parts of the world, lane splitting is not widely accepted in the United States, and it is not legal in Texas.

Lane Filtering vs. Lane Sharing

It’s essential to distinguish lane splitting from related terms, such as lane filtering and lane sharing.

Lane filtering usually happens at lower speeds, such as when a motorcycle moves to the front of a line of cars at a red light. Some states allow lane filtering under specific conditions, but lane filtering is not permitted in Texas under current law.

Lane sharing, on the other hand, is when two motorcycles ride side-by-side in the same lane. Texas law does allow this (up to two motorcycles within a single lane), as long as both riders consent.

Lane Splitting Is Illegal in Texas

Legal Status Under Texas Law

There’s no gray area here: lane splitting is illegal in Texas. The Texas legislature made this crystal clear in 2023 by passing House Bill 4122, which officially outlawed the practice. Before this bill, lane splitting existed in a legal gray area, with no specific law authorizing or banning it outright. That changed when Texas formally outlawed lane splitting, putting motorcyclists on notice that the practice is prohibited statewide.

If a motorcyclist rides between two lanes, they are violating Texas law, even if traffic is stopped or moving slowly. This means that choosing to split lanes in Texas could result in citations or more serious legal trouble, especially if an accident occurs.

What the Texas Transportation Code Says

The Texas Transportation Code requires all vehicles, including motorcycles, to follow the same traffic laws as other vehicles. This means motorcyclists must operate within a single lane and avoid maneuvers that could endanger themselves or others. There’s no exception in the code that allows motorcyclists to ride between lanes of traffic.

The law also emphasizes the importance of safe lane changes and maintaining your position within a single lane, which makes it clear that lane splitting violates Texas traffic laws. Despite arguments in favor of lane splitting and filtering, Texas lawmakers have opted for a conservative approach focused on uniform rules for all vehicles.

Why Texas Banned Lane Splitting

Safety Concerns and Legislative Intent

The primary reason lane splitting is now illegal in Texas is based on motorcycle safety concerns. Legislators cited concerns about unpredictable vehicle movements, distracted drivers, and narrow spaces between vehicles, all of which make lane splitting inherently risky.

The practice can surprise drivers who aren’t expecting a motorcycle between lanes of traffic, increasing the chances of collisions. Especially in lanes of traffic moving at inconsistent speeds, the margin for error is razor-thin. The risk of a motorcycle accident increases significantly when riders attempt to weave through traffic without sufficient space or visibility to do so safely.

Motorcyclists in Texas Must Follow the Law

Texas law makes it clear: motorcyclists in Texas are expected to follow the same traffic laws as other vehicles on the road. Just like cars and trucks, they must stay within a single lane, obey lane changes, and avoid risky maneuvers, such as lane splitting.

While many motorcyclists argue that lane splitting reduces traffic congestion, Texas lawmakers remain firm in their stance that lane splitting is illegal in the State. The emphasis is on predictability, consistency, and reducing the likelihood of crashes, especially in a state that continues to see a high number of motorcycle accidents each year.

Have There Been Attempts to Legalize Lane Splitting in Texas?

Past Legislative Efforts

Texas has seen multiple attempts to legalize lane splitting, often introduced by lawmakers aiming to improve traffic congestion and motorcycle safety. However, these bills have consistently failed to gain traction in the legislature.

Proposals often included safety conditions such as only allowing riders to split lanes at 20 mph or less, or when lanes of traffic are stopped or slow-moving. Despite support from rider advocacy groups, these bills rarely made it out of committee.

What Texas Legislators Have Said

While some Texas legislators have supported the idea of legalizing the practice, citing benefits such as reduced commute times and a decreased risk of rear-end collisions, others have raised serious safety concerns. Ultimately, those concerns have outweighed potential benefits, leading to the passage of House Bill 4122, which closed the door on any legal gray area. As it stands, Texas formally outlaws lane splitting.

Can Lane Filtering Be Legal in Texas?

Is Lane Filtering Treated Differently?

Lane filtering is a more conservative version of lane splitting, typically done at lower speeds and mainly at intersections. Some states, such as Utah, have adopted lane filtering laws, allowing motorcyclists to ride between lanes of stopped vehicles under controlled conditions.

In Texas, however, lane filtering is not explicitly legal. The Texas transportation code makes no provision for this behavior, and the same rules about staying within a single lane still apply. That means lane filtering in Texas carries the same risks as lane splitting, both in terms of safety and legal consequences.

Could Filtering Improve Traffic Flow?

Advocates argue that allowing some form of lane filtering could ease traffic in Texas, especially during peak hours. Some studies suggest that lane splitting reduces rear-end collisions for motorcyclists and helps decrease overall congestion. Still, until the Texas legislature decides otherwise, filtering remains prohibited.

Consequences of Lane Splitting in Texas

Legal Risks for Motorcyclists

Motorcyclists who split lanes in Texas risk more than just a ticket. They can also face fines and increased insurance premiums. Because lane splitting is illegal in Texas, riders could also be found liable for damages in a motorcycle accident, even if another driver contributed to the crash.

If you’re ticketed for riding between lanes of traffic, the offense could be used as evidence against you in court, especially if you’re involved in an accident while lane splitting.

Lane Splitting and Motorcycle Accident Liability

Insurance companies often argue that motorcyclists who split lanes are behaving recklessly. Even if another driver changes lanes suddenly or is distracted, the fact that a rider is riding between lanes of traffic can complicate claims. If you’re injured in a motorcycle crash while lane splitting, you may need legal help to protect your rights and seek compensation.

Involved in a Motorcycle Accident While Lane Splitting?

You May Still Have Legal Options

If you were involved in a motorcycle accident while lane splitting, don’t assume you have no case. Texas follows a modified comparative fault system, which means you may still recover damages if you’re found less than 51% at fault. That’s why it’s essential to understand your legal options and seek guidance from an experienced professional.

Contact a Motorcycle Accident Attorney

An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can review the facts, protect your interests, and help determine if you’re eligible for compensation. At Allbee Law Firm, Dallas personal injury attorneys are well-versed in Texas motorcycle laws and know how to effectively defend riders against unfair blame. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and advise you on the next steps.

Get a Free Consultation From Our Motorcycle Lawyers

Our personal injury law firm understands that even experienced riders can make mistakes or be unfairly blamed. If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, you need an advocate who knows the law and knows how to fight for you.

Call (972) 848-4848 for a free consultation with our experienced motorcycle lawyers today.