Is Lane Splitting Legal in Illinois?

Motorcycle riding offers freedom on the road, but it comes with responsibilities and rules that every rider needs to understand. One topic that sparks frequent discussion is lane splitting. If you’ve found yourself wondering, “Is lane splitting legal in Illinois?“—the answer is NO. It is not legal to split lanes on a motorcycle in Illinois. Read on for more information on lane splitting in this guide compiled by the experienced motorcycle accident lawyers in our law firm.

What Is Lane Splitting?

Motorcycle lane splitting occurs when a motorcyclist rides between two lanes of stopped traffic or slow-moving traffic. Many motorcycle riders use this technique to bypass congestion, save time, and avoid sitting in long traffic jams. It can be risky and potentially unsafe when motorcycles split lanes, especially in states where drivers aren’t accustomed to the practice.

Rules for Motorcyclists: Lane Sharing, Lane Splitting, Lane Filtering, and Shoulder Surfing

Lane Sharing

Side-by-side riding in the same lane is lane sharing. This is legal in Illinois and can help riders stay visible and safer while in traffic.

Lane Splitting

Lane splitting happens when a motorcycle moves between lanes of slow or stopped vehicles, traveling in the same direction. Illinois and many other states prohibit lane splitting.

Lane Filtering

Lane filtering refers to a motorcycle moving between two vehicles to move to the front of traffic at a signal or intersection. Is lane filtering legal in Illinois? The answer is NO.

Shoulder Surfing

Shoulder surfing means riding a motorcycle on the road’s shoulder to pass other traffic. This maneuver is illegal in Illinois.

Is Lane Splitting Illegal in Illinois?

Lane splitting is NOT LEGAL statewide. Illinois law prohibits motorcycles from overtaking vehicles in the same lane or riding between rows of traffic.

By law (625 ILCS 5/11-703), motorcyclists must follow the same road rules as other vehicles, such as obeying the speed limit and staying in designated or marked lanes.

What Are the Penalties for Lane Splitting in Illinois?

Since lane splitting is illegal, a motorcyclist who lane splits in Illinois faces penalties:

• Lane splitting is explicitly prohibited in Illinois.
• Violations can result in a Class A misdemeanor, which carries penalties of up to one year in jail, probation, or fines up to $2,500.
• If lane splitting leads to bodily injury, the charge can escalate to a Class C felony.

In addition, a motorcyclist who was splitting lanes when an accident happened may face a motorcycle accident injury claim.

Where Is Lane Splitting Legal?

Lane splitting laws vary across the United States. While Illinois prohibits it, states like California and Minnesota explicitly allow it. Other states, like Arizona and Colorado, permit variations of lane splitting. Many states remain silent, leaving the practice neither explicitly allowed nor prohibited.

Factors States May Evaluate When Considering Legalizing Lane Splitting

Lawmakers consider the pros and cons of lane splitting and lane filtering laws.

When motorcyclists lane split, there are multiple benefits, including reduced traffic congestion, smoother traffic flow, and shorter commute times—as motorcyclists can navigate through congested areas more efficiently. It may also lower pollution levels by minimizing idling times and speeding up commutes. Additionally, a UC Berkeley study found that careful lane splitting can improve rider safety by lowering the risk of rear-end collisions in stop-and-go or stationary traffic.

Lane splitting raises several safety concerns, including the risk of a motorcycle accident caused by side-swiping or collisions with other vehicles. Other drivers who are unfamiliar with lane splitting may react unpredictably, increasing the danger of motorcycle accidents. Legalizing it could also complicate traffic enforcement, requiring additional training and clearer regulations. Additionally, some drivers may view lane splitting as unsafe or unfair, potentially leading to increased road tension.