- April 23, 2025
- Tucker Law
- Car Accident Lawsuits
There is something liberating and joyous about riding a motorcycle through New York, but the experience also comes with risks and legal responsibilities. If you’ve ever sat in gridlocked traffic feeling your frustration starting to bubble as you watch the open space between cars, you may have had the temptation to ride between lanes. This maneuver may seem convenient, but lane splitting laws in New York make it illegal.
For injured riders facing medical bills, missed work, and an uncertain future, knowing about these laws is essential. Take a closer look at how New York defines lane splitting, how it differs from motorcycle lane filtering in NY, and what consequences you may face if you’re involved in a crash while engaging in either practice.
What Is Lane Splitting?
Lane splitting takes place when a motorcyclist rides in between two lanes that are headed in the same direction. This often happens when there is traffic or a standstill, and the driver weaves between cars that are stopped or moving at a crawl. While it might seem harmless and an easy way to save time, the law sees it differently.
New York’s Position on Lane Splitting and Filtering
Under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1252, lane splitting is prohibited. The statute outlines a few key situations:
- Motorcyclists cannot overtake and pass in the same lane as the vehicle being overtaken.
- Riding between lanes or rows of vehicles is not permitted.
- Only police officers performing official duties are exempt from this restriction.
Motorcyclists are entitled to use a full traffic lane, and no one — not even another motorcyclist — is allowed to infringe on that space. This same protection applies in reverse, as motorcyclists are required to give full traffic lane usage to other vehicles.
In short, lane splitting and motorcycle lane filtering in NY are both illegal. Filtering, which is when you move ahead between lanes in stopped or slow traffic, can carry similar penalties as lane splitting.
Why Is Lane Splitting Illegal in New York?
New York legislators banned lane splitting primarily to protect motorists on roadways. Traffic conditions in urban areas such as New York City can be unpredictable, and drivers are prone to making sudden lane changes or stopping abruptly. These actions often leave very little room for a motorcyclist to split lanes, drastically increasing the likelihood of an accident occurring.
Further reasons why the state has taken such a firm stance include:
- Motorcycles riding between lanes are often hidden in blind spots.
- A car might switch lanes without proper signaling, colliding with a rider.
- A driver opening their door in slow traffic can hit a passing motorcyclist.
- Lane-splitting riders have minimal room to swerve or stop safely.
- Vehicles that stop suddenly may cause a chain-reaction accident involving riders who are in between lanes.
Riding between lanes might feel like an efficient way to travel, but in New York, it’s considered illegal and dangerous.
Can Lane Splitting Affect Your Right to Compensation?
If you were involved in a motorcycle crash while lane splitting or filtering and were injured, your ability to recover compensation may be impacted, even if another driver caused the accident. This is because New York follows a pure comparative negligence rule, which means your compensation can be reduced based on the percentage you were at fault.
For example, if you were found to be 30% at fault for lane splitting when the crash occurred, your total compensation for your injuries would be reduced by 30%. That doesn’t mean you are completely barred from recovering financial aid, but it does make your case more complex. Insurance companies often use illegal maneuvers like lane splitting against victims so that they bear partial responsibility.
If you were involved in an accident caused by lane splitting or filtering, you don’t have to face the process alone. Call Tucker Lawyers at (516) 399-2364 today for a free case review to find out how our experienced team can help you.
Penalties for Lane Splitting in New York
In addition to complicating an injury claim, lane splitting can also result in legal penalties, including:
- Fines up to $150
- Points added to your driving record
- Increased insurance premiums
- Potential license suspension if there are repeated offenses.
These consequences can escalate quickly, especially if you have prior violations or your actions contributed to a serious accident.
Motorcycle Safety Tips to Avoid Lane Splitting Temptation
Understanding the laws regarding lane splitting and filtering is just one part of staying safe on New York roads. Here are some additional tips for riders looking to avoid risky behaviors:
- Always stay in your lane, even in heavy traffic — patience is always safer.
- Leave early to avoid peak rush hours and the temptation to weave through traffic.
- Wear visible gear to ensure you’re noticeable to other drivers.
- Plan your route to include roads with less traffic or dedicated motorcycle lanes.
- Take a defensive riding course to build better habits for urban traffic.
By committing to legal and safe riding practices, you’re protecting everyone on the road.
What About Changing Laws? Could Lane Splitting Become Legal?
Currently, California is the only U.S. state that explicitly allows lane splitting, and a few other states — Utah, Montana, and Arizona — allow lane filtering under certain conditions. However, there is currently no pending legislation in New York to legalize either. Until that changes, riders in the state are expected to follow current laws, which prohibit both.
How a Lawyer Can Protect Your Rights After a Motorcycle Crash
If you were in a crash while riding, especially in circumstances where lane positioning may be questioned, it is important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible. A motorcycle accident lawyer in New York can help by:
- Gathering evidence to dispute a claim that you were lane splitting
- Reviewing traffic cameras, police and accident reports, and witness statements
- Demonstrating another driver’s negligence caused the crash
- Negotiating with insurance providers to help avoid low settlement offers
- Filing a lawsuit when needed to pursue the compensation you’re entitled to.
Remember, even if lane splitting played a role in your accident, it doesn’t automatically disqualify you from seeking compensation.
Speak to a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer About Your Options Today
Whether you were lane splitting when you suffered a motorcycle accident or not, you have options after a crash. Tucker Lawyers understands the challenges motorcyclists face. We can evaluate your case and help you discover the right path forward.
Call Tucker Lawyers today at (516) 399-2364 to discuss your motorcycle accident case and determine your next steps forward.
Managing Attorney John. J. Tucker, Esq.
John has personally handled thousands of clients who were victims of another’s negligence and fights relentlessly for their rights. John enjoys bringing closure to a client’s matter so that the injured party can move forward with their life. His background enables him to evaluate complex liability related claims and bring resolution to claims in a record time frame. [ Attorney Bio ]