Is Lane Splitting Legal in Michigan?

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 Michigan?“—the answer is NO. It is not legal to split lanes on a motorcycle in Michigan. Read on for more information on lane splitting laws in this guide compiled by our experienced MI motorcycle accident lawyers.

What Is Lane Splitting?

Motorcycle lane splitting occurs when a motorcyclist rides between two lanes of stopped traffic, stationary vehicles, or when traffic flow is delayed by slow-moving cars. 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 motorcyclists lane split, especially in states where other 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 Michigan and can help riders stay visible and safer in traffic.

Lane Splitting

Lane splitting happens when a motorcycle moves between lanes of slow-moving traffic or stopped motor vehicles, traveling in the same direction. Michigan traffic laws PROHIBIT splitting lanes.

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 Michigan? The answer is NO.

Shoulder Surfing

Shoulder surfing means riding a motorcycle on the road’s shoulder to pass other traffic. Michigan law PROHIBITS riding on the shoulder.

Is Lane Splitting Illegal in Michigan?

Lane splitting is ILLEGAL statewide. Michigan law prohibits motorcycles from overtaking vehicles in the same lane or riding between rows of traffic.

According to Michigan Code Section 257.660(5), motorcyclists must follow the same road rules as other motor vehicles, such as obeying the speed limit and staying in designated or marked lanes.

What Are the Penalties for a Lane-Splitting Motorcyclist in Michigan?

By law, a motorcyclist lane splitting in Michigan faces penalties that can include fines and citations for improper lane usage. The specific consequences depend on the circumstances, such as whether the accident involving lane splitting caused bodily harm or property damage.

Where Is Lane Splitting Legal?

Lane splitting laws vary across the United States. While Michigan 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.

Lane-splitting motorcyclists provide 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 motorcycle rider safety by lowering the risk of rear-end collisions with larger vehicles in stop-and-go or stationary traffic conditions.

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.