Is Lane Splitting Legal in Missouri?

Lane splitting is the practice of riding a motorcycle between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic. Debates are ongoing between states about the legality and safety of this practice. Many motorcyclists wonder, “Is lane splitting legal in Missouri?” Whether you live in the state or you’re planning to visit, it’s important to understand the legality of lane splitting and road safety for motorcyclists.

Understanding Lane Splitting

Sometimes called “white-lining,” lane splitting occurs when a motorcycle travels between lines of traffic to bypass congestion. While some may argue that lane splitting improves traffic flow and reduces the risk of a rear-end collision, others argue about safety concerns and the potential for more accidents.

It’s important to understand the difference between lane splitting and other motorcycle practices:

• Lane Filtering: This occurs when a motorcycle moves between lanes at lower speeds, often during areas of heavy congestion or at traffic lights, whereas lane splitting can occur at regular traffic speeds.
• Lane Sharing: This happens when two motorcyclists ride side-by-side in the same lane. This is generally legal in most states, including Missouri.

Is Lane Splitting Legal in Missouri?

Laws surrounding lane splitting are often vague, but it is not legal in Missouri. However, traffic laws do not explicitly mention lane splitting, though it is prohibited under other existing statutes that regulate lane usage. At present, only California has specifically legalized lane splitting for motorcyclists, while many states do not have an explicit law surrounding the practice.

Missouri law indirectly addresses lane splitting through other laws, such as obedience to traffic control devices. All drivers, including motorcyclists, should follow traffic control devices, such as lane markings. Since lane splitting involves driving over these markings, it could result in a violation. Likewise, Missouri drivers must operate their vehicles in a single lane of traffic, according to safe lane usage laws. Lane splitting also goes against this guideline.

Furthermore, the state has laws against reckless or careless driving. If a motorcycle is lane splitting at high speeds, this could be deemed reckless driving, resulting in penalties or fines.

Why Is Lane Splitting Often Illegal?

Lane splitting is often illegal for many reasons. Some of these include:

• Safety Concerns: Lane splitting increases the risk of collisions, as drivers may not see motorcyclists passing between lanes. The space between vehicles leaves little room for error regarding motorcycles passing through.
• Driver Awareness: Drivers who are unaccustomed to lane splitting may not think to check for motorcycles before passing. This lack of awareness can be particularly dangerous for motorcyclists.
• Enforcement Challenges: Allowing lane splitting can make it difficult for law enforcement officers to distinguish between safe and reckless maneuvers.

Arguments in Favor of Lane Splitting

Some continue to fight in support of legalizing lane splitting. Arguments in favor of allowing this practice include:

• Reducing Traffic Congestion: Lane splitting lets motorcycles move through traffic efficiently, which helps relieve traffic congestion.
• Rider Safety: Some believe that allowing motorcycles to pass between cars minimizes the risk of rear-end collisions for motorcycles, which can cause catastrophic injury to the rider.
• Decreasing Emissions: Keeping motorcycles moving reduces idling and lowers emissions, which can be better for the environment.
• Time and Fuel Efficiency: Lane splitting can help motorcyclists avoid delays, saving them time and reducing the overall amount of fuel they use.

Alternatives to Lane Splitting

Missouri motorcyclists can follow safer alternatives to lane splitting. For example, lane sharing involves motorcyclists riding side-by-side in the same lane. This does not impede traffic and can make it easier for other cars to see them.

Defensive riding involves maintaining a safe following distance from other vehicles and remaining alert to sudden stops or lane changes. This can help motorcyclists avoid accidents, particularly in heavy traffic.

Some areas offer designated motorcycle or carpool lanes for motorcyclists to use, which can avoid congestion, instead of lane splitting.

FAQs

Is Lane Splitting Legal for Motorcycles in Missouri?

While lane splitting is not considered illegal for motorcycles in Missouri, it is still viewed as unsafe and unadvised. If law enforcement officers believe it’s being done in a dangerous manner, they may issue a ticket. Lane splitting can be used against a motorcyclist as evidence for the motorcyclist’s fault in an accident, as it can increase the odds of causing a collision.

Which States Allow Lane Splitting?

The only state in the U.S. that has specifically legalized lane splitting is California. However, lane splitting can still be considered dangerous, especially in bad weather or during busy driving times, like rush hour. Lane splitting should be avoided near on- and off-ramps and around freeway exits. Speeding during lane splitting is still considered illegal.

What Is the Difference Between Lane Splitting and Filtering?

Lane filtering refers to motorcycles moving between stationary or slow-moving vehicles in congested traffic. It’s done at low speeds and generally considered safer. Lane splitting involves riding between lanes of moving traffic and occurs at higher speeds. This is considered the more dangerous of the two because of the greater speeds and proximity to other vehicles.

What Happens If You Get Pulled Over Without a Motorcycle License in Missouri?

If you get pulled over for operating a motorcycle without a driver’s license in Missouri, you could be charged with a Class A misdemeanor and face possible fines. An additional conviction could result in a felony charge. You could also receive points on your driving record, and law enforcement could impound your motorcycle if they deem you unable to continue operating it.

Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today

If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, a qualified lawyer is essential for navigating complex motorcycle laws in Missouri. At Northland Injury Law, we can assist with determining fault and negotiating with insurance companies. We have a strong understanding of local traffic laws that impact motorcycle accident cases.

Having an experienced accident lawyer on your side can significantly improve your chances of obtaining compensation. Contact us today with questions about lane splitting laws and how they can affect your case.