Is Lane-Splitting Legal in Tennessee?

When motorcyclists are stuck in traffic, they may be tempted to move between rows of traffic, a behavior known as lane-splitting. While it might seem to save time, the question remains: Is lane-splitting legal in Tennessee?

Short answer: no; lane-splitting is not legal in Tennessee. If caught lane-splitting, you could be subject to fines and license penalties. So, motorcyclists should ensure they stay in line with other traffic on the road. 

Lane-Splitting Laws in Tennessee

Sec 55-8-182 of the Tennessee Code explicitly prohibits motorcycles from overtaking vehicles in the same lane and operating between lanes of traffic. It also prohibits motorcyclists from riding more than two abreast in the same lane. Police officers performing their official duties are the only party exempt from these rules. Lane-splitting in Tennessee is a moving violation and can incur fines and up to a three-point penalty on your driver’s license. 

Can I Still Recover Compensation If I Get Into an Accident While Lane-Splitting?

The answer to this question is a bit tricky. Typically, if you get into an accident while violating a traffic rule, negligence per se applies, and insurance companies and courts will judge you at fault for your accident. 

However, there are still some circumstances where you can recover compensation, even if lane-splitting was involved in the accident. 

• You may not have actually been lane-splitting. For instance, you may have just been changing traffic lanes or moving out of the way of a dangerous vehicle in front of you. These types of maneuvers are not lane-splitting, even if they may result in your sharing a lane with a vehicle for a moment.  
• The fact that you were lane-splitting might be irrelevant to the accident. If a chain sprocket fails while riding and causes an accident, it wouldn’t matter whether you were lane-splitting as it didn’t contribute to the accident. In this case, you may be able to recover damage from the bike part manufacturer. 
• The other driver may have been negligent and partially responsible for the accident. Tennessee uses a modified comparative negligence standard, so accident victims can still partially recover damages provided they are less than 50% at fault for an accident. 

What Should I Do If I Am in a Lane-Splitting Accident in Tennessee?

If you are in a lane-splitting accident in Tennessee, the first thing you should do is get medical attention. Your injuries need immediate treatment, and you will need medical documentation if you plan to file a claim. 

Next, contact a motorcycle accident attorney. They understand how motorcycle liability works in Tennessee and can help build a case to minimize your responsibility and maximize your chances of recovering compensation for your injuries.