Is Lane Splitting Legal in Florida?

Lane splitting occurs when motorcycles ride between lanes to pass slower or stopped traffic. Since motorcycles can often easily fit between other vehicles on the road, many riders ask, “Is lane splitting legal in Florida?”

Except for specific exceptions, lane splitting is illegal in Florida and punishable as a moving violation, the same as speeding or running a stop sign.

What Does Florida Law Say About Lane Splitting?

While lane splitting is legal in some states, many others, including Florida, specifically ban it on safety grounds. According to Florida law, motorcycle riders cannot operate their vehicles between traffic lanes or rows of vehicles.

The primary reason for the lane splitting ban in Florida is that it can lead to unsafe road conditions. Drivers may not see motorcyclists riding between the lanes of traffic and cause a collision when trying to change lanes.

How Many Motorcycles Can Be in a Single Lane?

While lane splitting is illegal, multiple motorcycles can share a lane at the same time. Under the law, up to two motorcycles can ride side-by-side. However, this doesn’t mean a motorcycle can pass another type of vehicle within the same lane.

It’s also important to keep in mind that motorcyclists are entitled to the full width of the lane, just like any other vehicle on the road. If another vehicle causes a collision by merging or attempting to pass you within your lane, they may try to say you were lane splitting. However, an experienced motorcycle accident attorney can help show that you were using the lane properly and entitled to the full width.

Is Lane Filtering Legal in Florida?

Some states that ban lane splitting allow lane filtering. But what’s the difference? Lane filtering is when motorcycles navigate between stopped traffic at a low speed, often to get to the front of the queue at traffic lights.

Motorcyclists sometimes do this to protect themselves from being rear-ended by vehicles that don’t see them stopped at the back of the queue. However, in Florida, like lane splitting, lane filtering is banned.

Riders who want to protect themselves from potential rear-end collisions at intersections can move to one side within their lane while sitting in the queue but should not ride between other vehicles.

Exception to Florida’s Lane Splitting Law

The only exception to Florida’s lane splitting law is for police officers and firefighters engaged in official duties. This exception allows first responders to navigate through traffic to address emergencies they may not otherwise be able to reach, such as a crash that’s blocking traffic on a highway.

For all other riders, there are no exceptions to the lane splitting law.

If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in Florida—whether lane splitting was a factor or not—Law Tigers is here to protect your rights. Insurance companies may try to use lane-splitting claims against you, but our experienced motorcycle attorneys know how to navigate Florida’s motorcycle laws and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact Law Tigers today for a free consultation. We’re here to support you on the road and in the courtroom. Ride safe!