Lane splitting and lane filtering are two terms that are often confused with one another, but they are actually two different things. Lane splitting is the term used when a motorcyclist passes between two lanes of traffic, while lane filtering is the term used when a motorcyclist moves up the side of a stopped or slow-moving vehicle. Lane splitting is a common practice among motorcyclists in some states.

However, it is illegal in Florida.

Some people argue that lane splitting should be legalized in Florida because it could help ease traffic congestion and make riding safer for motorcyclists. Others say that the risks of lane splitting outweigh the benefits, and that it is not worth legalizing.

What do you think? Should Florida legalize lane splitting? In this post we’ll look at the legalities of lane splitting and how it may actually reduce the amount of motorcycle accidents in Florida.

A Floridian involved in a motorcycle accident fills out their injury claim form.

The Cliff Notes: Key Takeaways From This Post

  • 1
    Lane splitting and lane filtering are two different motorcycling techniques.
  • 2
    Lane splitting is illegal in Florida, and violators can face fines up to $500.
  • 3
    Some people believe that lane splitting should be legalized in Florida as it may reduce traffic congestion and make riding safer for motorcyclists.
  • 4
    Lane splitting can potentially be safer for the motorcyclist than staying in the same lane, however there are risks involved.
  • 5
    According to statistics from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, 8,694 motorcycle accidents occurred in the state with 544 fatalities resulting from them.
  • 6
    The debate over legalizing lane splitting is still ongoing.
  • 7
    If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, a free consultation with experienced attorneys at Herman & Wells may help get compensation for your injuries.

The Florida Statute Outlawing Lane Splitting for Motorcyclists

The Florida statute outlawing lane splitting for motorcyclists is §316.209. This law states that “A person may not drive a motorcycle between rows of vehicles traveling in the same direction.” There are exceptions to this law, such as when traffic is congested and moving slowly, or when the motorcycle is in a funeral procession.

Why Is Lane Splitting Legal in Some States But Not Florida?

Lane splitting is the act of riding a motorcycle in the space between two lanes of traffic, usually cars. This can be done either by traveling in the same lane as the cars or by passing between them. In some states, lane splitting is legal for motorcyclists, while in Florida it is not. There are a few reasons for this.

One reason is that lane splitting can be dangerous. When a motorcycle travels between two lanes of traffic, it is difficult for other drivers to see them. This can lead to accidents, especially if the other driver does not expect a motorcycle to be there. Another reason is that lane splitting can cause traffic congestion. When motorcycles travel between lanes, it slows down traffic for everyone. This can be especially problematic on busy roads or during rush hour.

Despite these potential dangers, some people believe that lane splitting should be legal in Florida. They argue that it would make the roads safer for motorcyclists, as they would be less likely to get into an accident if they could split lanes. They also argue that it would reduce traffic congestion. While there is no definitive answer as to whether lane splitting should be legal in Florida, it is something that lawmakers should consider.

What’s the Penalty For Motorcyclists Caught Lane Splitting in Florida

Motorcyclists who are caught lane splitting in Florida can be fined up to $500.00. The law also requires that the motorcyclist must be moving no faster than 10 mph and that they must not exceed 25 mph when lane splitting.

Is Lane Splitting Actually Safer for Motorcyclists?

Lane splitting may actually be safer for the motorcyclist than staying in the same lane as the other vehicles. One scenario in which lane splitting is safer for the motorcyclist is when there are two lanes of traffic traveling in the same direction and one of those lanes has stopped completely while the other has continued to move forward. In this situation, it would be much safer for the motorcyclist to split lanes and ride between the two rows of cars rather than stay in the same lane as all of the other vehicles. This is because it would be much more difficult for a car that was moving to suddenly change lanes and hit the motorcycle than it would be for a car that was stopped to suddenly start moving again and hit the motorcycle.

Another scenario in which lane splitting is safer for the motorcyclist is when there are three or more lanes of traffic traveling in the same direction and one or more of those lanes has stopped while the other lanes have continued to move. In this situation, it would be much safer for the motorcyclist to split lanes and ride between the two rows of cars rather than stay in the same lane as all of the other vehicles. This is because it would be much easier for a car that was moving to suddenly change lanes and hit the motorcycle than it would be for a car that was stopped to suddenly start moving again and hit the motorcycle.

The third scenario in which lane splitting is safer for the motorcyclist is when there is one lane of traffic traveling in each direction and one of those lanes has stopped while the other has continued to move. In this situation, it would be much safer for the motorcyclist to split lanes and ride between the two rows of cars rather than stay in the same lane as all of the other vehicles. This is because it would be much easier for a car that was moving to suddenly change lanes and hit the motorcycle than it would be for a car that was stopped to suddenly start moving again and hit the motorcycle.