Is Lane Splitting Legal in Minnesota?

You may be wondering, “is lane splitting legal in Minnesota?” Well, Minnesota motorcyclists have reason to celebrate. In May 2024, the state joined a select group of U.S. states that have legalized lane filtering, offering new freedoms for riders. This milestone marks a significant shift in motorcycle regulations and reflects a growing recognition of the benefits of lane filtering in improving traffic flow and reducing congestion.

However, motorcyclists need to grasp the difference between lane filtering and lane splitting and the specific regulations that Minnesota has put in place. Understanding these nuances will ensure that riders can safely and legally take advantage of this new opportunity while complying with state laws.

Lane Splitting vs. Lane Filtering

Lane splitting and lane filtering are often confused, but they’re distinct practices. Lane splitting involves riding between lanes of moving traffic, and is usually performed at higher speeds. The practice is not currently legal in Minnesota.

Lane filtering, meanwhile, involves moving between stopped or slow-moving vehicles, and is typically done at lower speeds. When the new law goes into effect, this practice will be legal in Minnesota under specific conditions.

Minnesota’s New Law

Minnesota’s legislation, effective July 1, 2025, permits lane filtering with these restrictions:

• Speed Limit – Motorcyclists can filter if their speed doesn’t exceed 40 mph.
• Speed Differential – Riders must not exceed the speed of traffic by more than 15 mph.
• Conditions – Lane filtering is only allowed in slow-moving or stopped traffic.

Safety Considerations

Proponents of lane filtering cite several safety benefits, including a reduced risk of rear-end collisions, decreased severity of injuries in accidents, and improved traffic flow. Still, the practice remains controversial. Some motorists who are unfamiliar with lane filtering may be startled by motorcycles passing between lanes.

Driver Responsibilities

Minnesota’s law also addresses other motorists’ behavior relative to motorcyclists. Drivers must not intentionally impede motorcyclists who are legally filtering, and penalties may apply to drivers who do so.

Implementation and Education

With the law taking effect in 2025, there’s time for public education campaigns, updating driver education materials, and training law enforcement on the new rules. The delay in implementation allows for thorough preparation and awareness-building among all road users.

Rider Responsibilities

While lane filtering will soon be legal, riders should remember that they have a responsibility to operate their motorcycles safely. They should exercise caution when filtering, be aware of potential driver confusion, and only filter when conditions allow for safe execution.

The Future of Lane Sharing in Minnesota and Beyond

Minnesota’s move could influence other states to consider similar legislation. As more data becomes available on the safety impacts of lane filtering, this practice may become more widely accepted across the U.S. For now, Minnesota motorcyclists can look forward to this new option for navigating traffic while remembering that safety and adherence to the specific rules are paramount.

Whether you’re a motorcyclist or a driver, staying informed about these changes is crucial. As July 2025 approaches, all road users in Minnesota should prepare for this new traffic dynamic, prioritizing safety and mutual respect on the roads.

If you or a loved one suffered an injury in a motorcycle accident, our legal team here at Law Tigers is ready to help. For decades, we’ve helped defend the rights of wronged motorcycle riders by providing skilled representation and sound legal advice across the United States. To get a free case evaluation or to schedule your free consultation, call us at Law Tigers today at 1-800-529-8443.