Motorcyclists across Arizona are continually seeking safer and more efficient ways to navigate traffic. One question that frequently arises is: Is lane splitting legal in Arizona? The answer may surprise you, especially with recent changes to state laws that impact how and when motorcycle riders can legally maneuver between lanes of traffic.
At Wyatt Injury Law, we support injured motorcyclists throughout Arizona and provide guidance on complex legal issues like lane splitting, motorcycle accidents, and insurance claims. Our firm is dedicated to helping clients understand their rights, stay informed about evolving laws, and obtain the compensation they’re entitled to following an accident.
Whether you’re a daily commuter on two wheels or a weekend rider enjoying the open road, we’re here to protect your rights and advocate for your recovery.
What Is Lane Splitting?
Lane splitting is when a motorcyclist rides between two adjacent traffic lanes moving in the same direction, essentially riding the line between cars to pass them in slow or stopped traffic. It’s sometimes confused with lane filtering, a similar maneuver where a motorcyclist moves between stopped vehicles to reach the front of the line at a red light or intersection.
While both actions involve riding between cars, the key difference lies in the circumstances:
- Lane splitting typically occurs in moving traffic at higher speeds.
- Lane filtering occurs at low speeds or when traffic is at a complete stop.
Motorcycle riders often use these maneuvers to avoid being rear-ended, reduce their time in congested traffic, and keep their bikes from overheating. However, legal acceptance varies widely by state.
Is Lane Splitting Legal in Arizona?
Lane splitting is illegal in Arizona. However, the state has passed legislation permitting a limited form of lane filtering under specific conditions.
Arizona’s Lane Filtering Law
In 2022, Arizona became the fourth state to legalize lane filtering, following Utah, Montana, and California. The new law allows two-wheeled motorcycles to pass between stopped vehicles under specific circumstances:
- The road must have at least two adjacent lanes traveling in the same direction.
- Traffic must be stopped (e.g., at a red light or in gridlock).
- The motorcycle must not exceed fifteen miles per hour.
- The posted speed limit on the road must be 45 miles per hour or less.
This new rule aims to reduce the number of rear-end accidents involving motorcycles in stopped traffic, particularly in dense urban areas like Phoenix and Tucson.
It’s important to note that this law applies only to marked lanes on paved roads, and only when it’s safe to do so. If a motorcyclist attempts to split lanes at high speeds or outside these conditions, they may still face penalties under existing Arizona law.
What’s the Difference Between Lane Splitting and Lane Filtering?
Understanding the distinction between these two terms is key for both motorcyclists and other drivers.
Lane Filtering
- Legal in Arizona under certain conditions
- Only allowed when traffic is stopped
- Speed must not exceed 15 MPH
- Only permitted on roads with speed limits of 45 MPH or less
- Designed to improve safety at red lights or in traffic jams
Lane Splitting
- Still illegal in Arizona
- Occurs in moving traffic
- Can occur at higher speeds
- No speed restrictions apply
- Considered more risky due to faster speeds and tighter spacing
Arizona’s lane filtering law is a cautious step toward making the state more motorcycle-friendly, but it isn’t a green light for high-speed lane splitting.
Risks and Benefits of Lane Filtering
Potential Benefits
- Reduces the risk of rear-end collisions
- Helps riders move through congested traffic
- Decreases motorcycle engine overheating
- Minimizes rider exposure in stop-and-go traffic
Potential Risks
- Drivers may not expect or see motorcyclists between lanes
- Not enough space between vehicles to maneuver safely
- Increased risk of lane-splitting accidents
- Sudden lane changes by cars can lead to collisions
Even under the new law, motorcyclists must use caution, good judgment, and situational awareness when navigating through traffic.
What to Do If You’re Involved in a Lane Filtering Accident
If you’re injured in a motorcycle accident while lane filtering, your actions after the crash can impact your ability to recover compensation.
Ensure Your Safety
Move to a safe area away from traffic, if possible. Turn off the bike and check for injuries.
Call Law Enforcement
Report the crash and request an accident report. This documentation is critical for establishing fault.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Even if your injuries feel minor, see a doctor right away. Motorcyclists are more exposed to serious injuries, and medical records are vital for insurance claims.
Document the Scene
Take photos of the motorcycle, vehicles, damage, road conditions, and traffic signals. Get contact information from any witnesses.
Contact Wyatt Injury Law
Before dealing with an insurance company, speak to a motorcycle accident attorney. Insurance adjusters may try to claim that your actions were illegal, even if you were lane filtering legally.
How Wyatt Injury Law Supports Injured Motorcyclists
Wyatt Injury Law offers aggressive and compassionate legal support to Arizona motorcyclists who have been injured in traffic accidents. Whether you were following the motorcycle lane filtering law or were unfairly blamed by another driver, we’re here to protect your rights.
We Help Clients With:
- Determining whether the accident occurred under legal lane filtering conditions
- Navigating insurance claims and handling communication with adjusters
- Investigating the crash and gathering evidence
- Filing personal injury lawsuits, if necessary
- Seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and bike repairs
Our firm understands that motorcyclists face unique dangers on Arizona roads. That’s why we tailor our legal strategies to your needs, ensuring you’re not unfairly blamed or denied coverage based on outdated or misunderstood traffic rules.
Common Questions About Lane Filtering and Motorcycle Laws in Arizona
Is lane splitting ever legal in Arizona?
No. While lane filtering is legal in certain situations, lane splitting—riding between moving traffic—remains illegal under Arizona law.
What if a driver hits me while I’m lane filtering legally?
If you were following Arizona’s lane filtering legislation, the other driver may be at fault. An attorney can help prove that you were complying with the law and that the other vehicle’s actions caused the accident.
Can I be ticketed for lane splitting in Arizona?
Yes. If you’re riding between moving vehicles or in conditions not permitted by the lane filtering law, you could be cited for unsafe lane changes or reckless driving. Law enforcement officers may also issue tickets for failure to maintain a single lane or endangering other drivers. These citations can impact your driving record, insurance rates, and potentially your ability to recover compensation if you’re involved in an accident.
What types of roads allow lane filtering?
Only roads with speed limits of 45 MPH or less and two or more adjacent lanes traveling in the same direction are eligible. It must also be safe and reasonable under the traffic conditions.
Does lane filtering make Arizona a more motorcycle-friendly state?
Yes, this law is a step in the right direction for motorcycle safety. Allowing lane filtering in stopped traffic can reduce common risks, such as being rear-ended or trapped in gridlock.
Know Your Rights as a Motorcyclist in Arizona
Motorcyclists often face stigma on the road and in the courtroom. That’s why it’s so important to understand your rights under Arizona’s lane filtering law and to seek legal guidance after any crash involving lane splitting, lane filtering, or unclear liability.
You may be entitled to compensation for:
- Emergency medical care and long-term treatment
- Physical therapy or rehabilitation
- Lost wages due to time away from work
- Motorcycle repairs or replacement
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
Let Wyatt Injury Law help you explore every avenue for recovery.
Contact Wyatt Injury Law for a Free Consultation
Have you been involved in a lane-splitting accident or a crash while lane filtering in Arizona? Don’t let confusion around the law or insurance denials derail your recovery. Contact Wyatt Injury Law today for a free consultation.
We’ll review the facts of your case, explain your legal options, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Whether the other driver was negligent or the insurer is trying to shift blame, we’ll stand by you from start to finish.