The maneuverability of a motorcycle makes it tempting to slip through lanes rather than sit in stopped traffic — a practice known as lane splitting. But is lane splitting legal in Florida? The answer is no, and violations could cost you more than a ticket. State data shows that over 600 Florida motorcyclists suffered fatal injuries and over 2,000 suffered serious injuries during crashes.
To avoid any citations — or worse, motorcycle accidents — it’s essential to know what constitutes lane splitting, what Florida law says about lane sharing, and other prohibited activities for riders in the Sunshine State.
What Is Lane Splitting?
Lane splitting refers to the practice of motorcyclists riding between lanes of traffic moving in the same direction. It is commonly seen when riders try to navigate around slow-moving vehicles or bypass traffic jams. Lane-splitting laws vary by state. Unless you know motorcycle traffic laws for Florida, you could quickly find yourself in a dangerous situation on the road.
What You Need to Know About Florida Statute § 316.209
While it may be legal in some other parts of the U.S., Florida law clearly states that lane splitting is a traffic violation.
According to Florida Statute § 316.209(3), “No person shall operate a motorcycle between lanes of traffic or between adjacent lines or rows of vehicles.”
This means motorcyclists must remain within a single lane along with all other motor vehicles. Since it’s often unexpected by other drivers, violating lane-splitting laws increases the risk of a crash and could make you legally responsible for any injuries or damages resulting from a motorcycle accident.
Penalties for Lane Splitting in Florida
If you’re cited for lane splitting in Florida, you may face the following penalties:
- Fines
- Points added to your driver’s license
- Potential increases in your insurance premiums
On top of these penalties, you may be found partially or fully at fault if an accident occurs while you are lane splitting.
Even if another motorist’s negligence contributed to the crash, lane splitting can significantly weaken your motorcycle accident claim. If you’ve been hurt in a lane-splitting accident, an experienced personal injury attorney can help you determine who is at fault and could owe you compensation.
Lane Filtering vs. Lane Splitting: What’s the Difference?
Like lane splitting, lane filtering happens when motorcyclists maneuver between vehicles. The difference is that lane filtering involves moving between stopped traffic rather than moving traffic. You might see riders engage in this practice at intersections to cut in line. In Florida, lane filtering is still illegal and can result in similar penalties and liability issues.
Can Florida Motorcyclists Ride Side-by-Side?
Yes, Florida law allows two motorcyclists to ride side by side in a single lane. Only two riders may do this at a time, unless the rider is a police officer or firefighter operating in an official capacity.
Riding side by side can be safer for motorcyclists. Motorcycles are smaller and narrower than passenger cars, making them less visible to other drivers on the road. When appropriate, sharing a lane with another rider can be safer by improving your presence on the road.
Contact Our Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Today
If you suffered injuries in a motorcycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence, get guidance from an experienced motorcycle accident attorney from Zimmet & Zimmet today. We’ve recovered millions in compensation over our 50 years in practice, and many past clients have shared positive feedback about their experience with our firm.
Even if you were lane-splitting at the time of a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact us today for your free consultation with a Daytona Beach motorcycle accident lawyer.
