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Navigating roadway traffic can feel overstimulating for drivers trying to find the most effective means of traversing. Among the many strategies employed by drivers, lane splitting emerges as an effective yet contentious technique.

This blog delves into lane splitting, examining its definition, legal implications across the state of Texas, and risk factors for drivers contemplating its usage. For more information, contact an experienced personal injury attorney today.

Defining Lane Splitting

Lane splitting is the process in which a motorcycle or bicycle rider drives between two lanes of traffic. This motion can occur on any type of road, typically when traffic moves slowly or at a standstill. Due to the smaller designs of motorcycles and bikes, lane splitting is an accessible move to weave through traditional means of driving in Houston.

Is Lane Splitting Legal?

Lane splitting is technically only legal in one state: California. However, Arizona, Montana, Utah, and Hawaii have passed laws that allow similar processes, such as lane filtering and shoulder surfing. Lane splitting is illegal in 34 states, but 11 states and the District of Columbia do not explicitly address it in their jurisdictions.

Texas is one of the 11 states where lane splitting is not addressed, as Texas Transportation Code § 545.060 requires motorcycle and bicycle users on roadways with two or more marked lanes to drive nearly and practically in an entire single lane and only allows movement from said lane when deemed safe to do so.

Risks of Lane Splitting

While lane splitting may reduce rear-end collisions in Houston, this practice has risks. One risk is that a driver may not see a motorcycle or bicycle rider as they maneuver between lanes. Additionally, cyclists who swerve in and out of lanes have an increased risk of losing control of their bike and involving themselves in an accident.

This risk is commonly referred to as “speed differential,” where the difference in speed between bikes and surrounding traffic can play a monumental role in causing a crash when practicing lane splitting.

Lane Splitting Consultations with KGS

If you are involved in a crash due to acts of lane splitting, lane filtering, or shoulder surfing in the Houston metropolitan area, an attorney could help you navigate legislation regarding your rights. Consult the law firm of Kinard, Garcia & Saldaña for all of your lane-splitting inquiries today.