Free Consultation
(512) 910-2000
Habla Espanol
Free Consultation
(512) 910-2000
Habla Espanol
When riding a motorcycle on open roads, the rules of the road must be observed to ensure the safety of all users. One often questionable practice is lane splitting – the act of a motorcyclist maneuvering between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic. In Texas, the legality surrounding lane splitting has been a topic of discussion among riders and law enforcers alike. As a motorcycle accident attorney, I aim to clarify the legal standing of lane splitting in Texas to help you ride with confidence and within the bounds of the law.
While the law does not explicitly prohibit or allow lane-splitting, the provision requiring vehicles to use one lane inherently makes lane-splitting against Texas law. This means that it is NOT legal to split lanes on a motorcycle in Texas.
Some people believe that lane-splitting can be a safe practice and should be legal under certain circumstances for motorcyclists. Others assert it is dangerous conduct that puts everyone at risk. Regardless of which side of the debate you might be on, it does not change the fact that the law does not allow motorcyclists to split lanes, as it requires them to stay within one lane.
While Texas doesn’t have a specific law regarding lane splitting, motorcyclists are expected to adhere to general traffic laws, which dictate that all vehicles should be driven within a single lane.
Engaging in lane splitting may have several legal ramifications:
Given the legal gray area surrounding lane splitting, it’s advisable to exercise caution:
When motorcyclists do split lanes, accidents might happen. When they do, who is to blame?
Liability for a motorcycle accident in a lane-splitting accident varies depending on the circumstances. Although motorcyclists who perform lane splitting take a risk, other parties on the road can also be at fault and contribute to the accident.
Potential parties who could be liable for the accident include:
Knowing who is liable is necessary to identify your legal rights following a lane-splitting collision. If you are to blame, you cannot seek compensation from another party’s insurance company. However, if another driver caused or contributed to your collision, their insurance should fully or partially cover your medical bills and other losses if you suffered injuries in the crash.
Understanding the legal landscape around lane splitting in Texas is crucial for every rider. As a motorcycle accident attorney, I am here to provide precise and reliable legal guidance to ensure that you ride within the legal framework, minimizing the potential repercussions of an unfortunate event on the road.
If you have any inquiries about lane splitting or if you need legal representation following a motorcycle accident, feel free to reach out. Together, we can work towards achieving a favorable resolution, ensuring that justice prevails and your rights remain protected.
Lane-splitting violations in Texas carry fines ranging from $175 to $300, depending on jurisdiction and circumstances. Additional penalties may be imposed in some cases, especially if the maneuver results in an accident or reckless driving charge.
Texas does not have a statewide dead red law. However, in some areas, lawmakers suggest that motorcyclists may proceed through a red light if their bike is not detected by the sensor. In those situations, a rider must come to a complete stop, wait a reasonable amount of time, and continue only when the way is clear and safe. A citation could still be given if law enforcement considers the action unsafe. Because there is no statewide dead red law, local laws can vary quite a bit, so riders should know what is expected of them in their areas.
No. Motorcyclists must not split lanes. Having motorcycles in the same lane is legal, provided you are not splitting lanes in traffic or at stoplights. The police rigorously enforce this law. If caught violating the law, you will face a fine between $175 and $300, depending on where you are.
In addition to fines, repeat offenders may be subject to increased penalties, such as higher insurance premiums, points on their driving record, and possible suspension of their license for multiple offenses.
Lane splitting is often cited as a contributing factor in motorcycle accidents. Riders involved in such crashes may be deemed partially or fully at fault, which can impact their ability to seek compensation. Repeated lane-splitting violations can lead to denied insurance claims or increased premiums. If you’ve been cited or involved in an accident, consulting an experienced injury attorney can help protect your rights. Because of this, Texas motorcyclists need to be aware of and follow traffic laws to protect themselves in both a safety and legal aspect.
If you have sustained an injury in a lane-splitting motorcycle accident, it is always recommended to engage an Austin motorcycle accident attorney to evaluate your case and determine liability and your rights to potential compensation.
Attorneys have essential skills and knowledge to investigate unique circumstances surrounding lane-splitting incidents. For instance, they can retrieve video surveillance on nearby premises to understand the cause of the accident.
An attorney can also help you compile the necessary documentation required to prove an injury, including medical records, doctor’s notes, prescription notes, images of the injury, specialist reports, and eyewitness statements.
More importantly, an Austin motorcycle accident attorney will communicate with the insurer on your behalf. They may negotiate for a higher settlement value that covers your injury-related losses if necessary. Free consultation.
Trent Kelly obtained his law degree from the University of Arkansas in 2007. He is licensed to practice law in Texas and regularly assists clients with their legal matters. Trent’s practice is primarily focused on personal injury matters – particularly those involving motor vehicles (such as cars, commercial trucks, 18-wheelers, and motorcycles) and wrongful death – but he also handles various business litigation matters as well. Click here to take a look at some complex cases Trent has resolved.
Years of experience: +15 years
Location: Austin, TX
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by attorney Trent Kelly, who has more than 15 years of legal experience as a practicing personal injury trial attorney.
Written by TK Injury Lawyers, reviewed by Trent Kelly on November 15, 2024
In 2021, the Lone Star state was home to 496 motorcycle fatalities. Texas tops the list for the most dangerous...
Written by TK Injury Lawyers, reviewed by Trent Kelly on August 27, 2024
Statistical data consistently show that young drivers are at a higher risk of being involved in accidents. Thi...
Written by TK Injury Lawyers, reviewed by Trent Kelly on August 20, 2024
Motorcycles offer much more freedom on the road than other modes of transportation. One such freedom is lane-s...
Tell us about your case and our attorneys will contact you promptly
No Fees Unless We Win
call us (512) 910-2000
Message Us
Call Us 
Car Accident