Is Lane Splitting Legal in Oklahoma?

One of the most common questions we get as motorcycle attorneys is: Is lane splitting legal in Oklahoma? 

Like most states in the US, lane splitting is illegal in Oklahoma. The law requires motorcyclists to ride in line with cars, just like other motor vehicles. If caught lane splitting, you can be subject to a hefty fine and license penalties. So motorcyclists in Oklahoma should always make sure they never co-occupy a lane with other vehicles. 

Oklahoma Lane Splitting Laws 

Oklahoma Statutes 47-11-1103 states that no motorcycle operator should pass other vehicles in the same lane while moving in the same direction. The only exception to lane splitting laws is authorized emergency vehicles, such as the police. 

Oklahoma state law does not explicitly prohibit two motorcyclists from riding side-by-side. As long as the motorcyclists do not impede the normal flow of traffic and ride reasonably, they can legally share the same lane. 

Lane Splitting Vs Lane Filtering

Oklahoma law doesn’t specifically mention lane filtering, which is moving between slowed or stopped traffic in between lanes, typically at an intersection. However, in most cases, lane filtering will work against you if you are in an accident. As such, motorcyclists shouldn’t try to bypass stopped or slowed traffic by moving along white lines or between cars and the curb. 

Penalties for Lane Splitting in Oklahoma

Lane splitting is a traffic violation in Oklahoma and can result in a fine and up to one point on your license. Penalties for lane splitting can be significantly more severe if you cause an accident and injure someone. 

Lane Splitting and Motorcycle Accident Liability

If you are in a motorcycle accident while lane splitting, you might wonder whether you can still recover compensation for your injuries. In most cases, if you are lane splitting and cause an accident, the law will consider you negligent and at fault for the accident and your injuries. Violating lane-splitting laws is usually enough to determine negligence and assign fault to the motorcyclist. 

However, you may still be able to recover compensation for your injuries, even if you were lane-splitting when it happened. If the other driver was also behaving negligently, they may share partial fault and be liable for the portion of your injuries they caused. For instance, if a driver was speeding and struck you while you were lane-splitting, they may be partially liable. 

Oklahoma is a comparative negligence state, so at-fault parties in motorcycle accidents can still recover damages so long as they are not more responsible for the accident than are all other at-fault parties. However, awarded damages will be reduced by the percentage of fault you bear. A motorcycle accident attorney can argue your case to minimize fault and maximize your recoverable compensation. 

Law Tigers are Committed to Protecting Riders

While lane splitting might seem like a convenient way to navigate traffic, it’s essential to remember that it’s illegal in Oklahoma. It can lead to fines, license penalties, and increased liability in accidents. Understanding the laws and riding responsibly is the best way to stay safe on the road.

If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident—whether lane splitting was a factor or not—the Law Tigers are here to help. Our experienced motorcycle attorneys understand the unique challenges riders face and can help you navigate complex legal situations.

Have more questions about riding laws, like “Is lane splitting legal in Oklahoma?” Contact Law Tigers today for a free consultation and learn how we can fight for your rights as a motorcyclist.