Is Lane Splitting Legal in Missouri?

Riding a motorcycle brings a sense of freedom, but it also comes with important responsibilities and rules every rider must follow. A common topic of debate among motorcyclists is lane splitting. If you’re asking, “Is lane splitting legal in Missouri?“—the answer is not clear. Missouri law does not specifically address lane splitting.

You can learn more about lane splitting laws in this guide prepared by the knowledgeable 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, stationary vehicles, or slow-moving vehicles when traffic flow is interrupted. Motorcycle riders use this technique to bypass congestion, save time, and avoid sitting in traffic moving slowly. 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 splitting and its variations, called lane filtering, lane sharing, and shoulder surfing, are not addressed specifically in Missouri law.

Lane Sharing

Side-by-side riding in one lane is lane sharing.

Lane Splitting

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

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 Missouri? Again, the law is ambiguous, leaving it to the discretion of law enforcement.

Shoulder Surfing

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

Is Lane Splitting Illegal in Missouri?

Under Missouri Section 304.015, the law does not specifically address or prohibit lane splitting, leaving its legality open to interpretation of local traffic laws. By law, Missouri motorcyclists are required to stay in their lane unless it is safe to change lanes. This creates some ambiguity, as lane splitting is neither fully legal nor explicitly prohibited.

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

Missouri Section 304.015 categorizes traffic violations—such as reckless driving or disobeying the speed limit—by severity: Class C misdemeanor for general violations, Class B for those posing an immediate accident risk, and Class A if an accident occurs. Penalties may include fines, points on the driver’s record, and possible jail time.

Where Is Lane Splitting Legal?

Lane splitting laws vary across the United States. States like California and Minnesota explicitly allow it. Other states, like Arizona and Colorado, permit variations of lane splitting. Many states (like Missouri) 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 in heavy traffic, 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, increasing fuel efficiency, 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 and lose control, increasing the danger of motorcycle accidents. Legalizing it could also complicate traffic enforcement, requiring additional training and clearer regulations. Additionally, motorcycle accident cases could be increased. Some drivers may view lane splitting as unsafe or unfair, potentially leading to increased road tension.