Just because you think you can do something doesn’t mean you should.
While there is no comprehensive data on how many accidents involve lane splitting, motorcycle-related fatalities have increased. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, nearly 600 people riding motorcyclists died in crashes in Texas in 2023, and more than 2,400 were seriously injured.
In a news release, TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said both drivers and motorcyclists need to understand how to share the road safely at all times.
“It can be hard to judge the distance, size and speed of a motorcycle, which is why we need to pay extra attention when sharing the road,” Williams said. “We want everyone to get home safe, and that means drivers should be on the lookout for motorcycles and give them adequate space, especially when turning.”
Is lane splitting allowed in Texas? Here’s what to know.
Is lane splitting illegal in Texas?
Lane splitting is not permitted under Texas law. According to the Texas Transportation Code, all vehicles, including motorcycles, are required to remain within a single lane of traffic. Violating this rule is considered a traffic offense and may result in fines or other penalties.
Texas Transportation Code §545.060 states:
A driver must drive as nearly as practical entirely within a single lane.
A driver may not change lanes unless it is safe to do so.
On a roadway with three lanes and two-way traffic, a driver may use the center lane only when passing another vehicle with sufficient clearance, preparing to make a left turn, or following a traffic-control device that authorizes such movement.
What is lane splitting?
Lane splitting, also known as white-lining or stripe-riding, is the practice of a motorcyclist navigating between two lanes of stationary or slow-moving vehicles, typically during heavy traffic.
Can motorcyclists legally lane split in Texas?
No. Motorcyclists must adhere to the same lane laws as other drivers and may not ride between lanes of traffic.
The legal justification is that motorcyclists are less visible, especially in heavy traffic or poor weather conditions, which increases the risk of collisions.
House Bill 4122, passed in 2023, makes it illegal for motorcyclists to ride between lanes of traffic moving in the same direction or to overtake vehicles within the same lane. Riders are required to stay within a single lane and are prohibited from lane weaving.
Texas Transportation Code §545.0605 clarifies:
Motorcycles may operate two abreast in a single lane with another motorcycle.
Motorcycles may not operate more than two abreast in a single lane with other motorcycles.
Motorcycles may not ride between lanes of traffic moving in the same direction.
Motorcycles may not overtake a vehicle while in the same lane as the vehicle being passed.
Does this law apply to police officers?
State code §545.0605 subsection (a)(3) says the law does not apply to a police officer in the performance of the officer’s official duties.
This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Is lane splitting illegal in Texas? Here’s what the law says