Lane Filtering vs Lane Splitting in Texas, What Riders Need to Know Before Getting on the Road
If you ride a motorcycle in Texas, you have probably heard people talk about lane splitting and lane filtering. These terms sound similar, but they mean different things, and the law treats them differently. This article explains what each term means, what is legal in Texas, and what riders should understand before trying either maneuver on Texas roads.
What These Terms Mean in Everyday Language
Lane splitting
Lane splitting is when a motorcycle rides between two lanes of moving traffic. Imagine two cars driving side by side on the highway and a motorcycle squeezing between them to move ahead. This maneuver is currently not legal in Texas.
Lane splitting is when a motorcycle rides between two lanes of moving traffic. Imagine two cars driving side by side on the highway and a motorcycle squeezing between them to move ahead. This maneuver is currently not legal in Texas.
Lane filtering
Lane filtering is when a motorcycle moves between stopped or very slow cars at a traffic light to reach the front of the line. It usually happens at low speeds. Several states allow this in some form, but Texas does not currently allow it.
Lane filtering is when a motorcycle moves between stopped or very slow cars at a traffic light to reach the front of the line. It usually happens at low speeds. Several states allow this in some form, but Texas does not currently allow it.
In short, Texas law treats both the same way. Neither one is legal on Texas roads right now.
What Texas Law Says About These Maneuvers
Texas Transportation Code Section 545.060 requires drivers to stay within a single lane unless it is safe to move out of it. Even though the law does not use the words lane splitting or lane filtering, Texas law enforcement and Texas courts generally treat riding between lanes as an unsafe movement unless the statute is revised in the future.
Lawmakers have introduced bills in past sessions that would authorize lane filtering at low speeds. None of these bills have become law so far. Until the Legislature changes the statute, riding between lanes is still against Texas law.
Why Texas Does Not Allow Lane Filtering or Splitting Right Now
Texas road rules are written with safety in mind. Riding between lanes creates risks such as:
- Drivers not expecting a motorcycle beside them.
- Limited room for emergency movement.
- Doors, mirrors or sudden lane changes blocking the path.
- Higher injury risk because the rider has very little protection.
Some states have done studies and created rules to manage these risks, but Texas has not adopted similar changes at this time.
What Happens if a Rider Splits or Filters Lanes in Texas
If a motorcycle rider moves between lanes in Texas, officers may issue a citation for:
- Failing to maintain a single lane.
- Unsafe passing.
- Reckless driving, depending on the situation.
Penalties vary based on the officer’s judgment and the specific conditions on the road. A citation may come with fines and possible points on your driving record.
Common Misunderstandings Riders Should Know
Misunderstanding one, Texas is considering it so it must be allowed now.
Bills being proposed do not make the act legal. Only an approved statute signed into law would change the rules.
Bills being proposed do not make the act legal. Only an approved statute signed into law would change the rules.
Misunderstanding two, lane filtering is fine at red lights because the cars are not moving.
Texas law still considers this riding between lanes, which is not legal even if traffic is stopped.
Texas law still considers this riding between lanes, which is not legal even if traffic is stopped.
Misunderstanding three, other riders do it so it must be legal.
Seeing others do something on the road does not mean the law allows it. Riders should follow the written statute, not other people’s habits.
Seeing others do something on the road does not mean the law allows it. Riders should follow the written statute, not other people’s habits.
When Texas Riders Should Consider Talking to a Lawyer
It may help to speak with a Texas traffic or criminal defense lawyer if:
- You received a citation for lane splitting or lane filtering.
- The ticket includes charges such as reckless driving.
- The stop led to other issues, such as vehicle searches.
- You were in a crash involving lane movement questions.
A lawyer can explain potential consequences and typical options based on Texas law without promising any specific outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lane Splitting and Lane Filtering in Texas
Is lane splitting legal anywhere in Texas?
No, Texas does not allow lane splitting on any public road. Riders must stay within a single lane unless they are fully changing lanes. If a rider moves between vehicles in traffic, an officer may treat it as an unsafe movement.
No, Texas does not allow lane splitting on any public road. Riders must stay within a single lane unless they are fully changing lanes. If a rider moves between vehicles in traffic, an officer may treat it as an unsafe movement.
Is lane filtering allowed at red lights in Texas?
No, lane filtering is not allowed in Texas. Even when traffic is stopped, moving between lanes counts as riding outside a single lane, which is not permitted under the current statute.
No, lane filtering is not allowed in Texas. Even when traffic is stopped, moving between lanes counts as riding outside a single lane, which is not permitted under the current statute.
Can I get a ticket for lane splitting even if traffic is barely moving?
Yes, you can still get a citation. Texas law does not make exceptions for slow traffic. Officers may issue tickets for unsafe passing, failure to maintain a single lane or reckless driving depending on the situation.
Yes, you can still get a citation. Texas law does not make exceptions for slow traffic. Officers may issue tickets for unsafe passing, failure to maintain a single lane or reckless driving depending on the situation.
Has Texas ever tried to make lane filtering legal?
Yes, lawmakers have introduced bills in several legislative sessions to allow limited lane filtering at low speeds. None of these have passed into law. Until a bill becomes law, filtering and splitting remain illegal.
Yes, lawmakers have introduced bills in several legislative sessions to allow limited lane filtering at low speeds. None of these have passed into law. Until a bill becomes law, filtering and splitting remain illegal.
What is the safest thing to do in heavy traffic if I ride a motorcycle?
The safest approach is to stay in your lane, keep a safe following distance, and be visible to other drivers. Many riders also use bright gear, keep headlights on, and position themselves so drivers can see them in their mirrors.
The safest approach is to stay in your lane, keep a safe following distance, and be visible to other drivers. Many riders also use bright gear, keep headlights on, and position themselves so drivers can see them in their mirrors.
Final Thoughts
The main point to remember is simple, riding between lanes is currently not allowed anywhere in Texas. Texas may revisit the issue in future legislative sessions, but until the law changes, riders should follow the current rules to avoid citations and stay safe on the road. If you do receive a ticket or have questions about a specific situation, a Texas attorney can explain typical options and next steps.
About the Author
Aaron B Mickens
For over 25 years, Aaron has fought for justice on behalf of Austin's injured. He is committed to standing up to insurance companies and winning for clients across Central Texas.
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