Motorcycle lane splitting is a contentious issue among many riders and motorists in the United States. There is no federal ruling on motorcycle lane splitting and many other maneuvers, which means the legality of these techniques falls to state laws. Many states have legalized lane splitting, but many others have ruled against it. Due to the vast percentage of traffic fatalities that are comprised of motorcycle accidents, 15.5% according to the National Safety Council, certain safety regulations are required by law.
As such, motorcycle lane splitting is illegal in Washington state. However, lane splitting restrictions are not the only Washington motorcycle laws that motorists must pay attention to. Following these restrictions can help prevent motorcycle accidents and promote safety on the road. In the unfortunate event of an accident, however, a skilled motorcycle accident attorney from Herschensohn Law, PLLC can help. With decades of combined experience and success with several multi-million dollar settlements, our Kent motorcycle accident legal team can provide determined support and representation. Call the office now at (206) 222-9553 to schedule a case assessment.
What is Motorcycle Lane Splitting?
Motorcycle lane splitting is the practice of riding between lanes of stopped or slow-moving traffic moving in the same direction to get in a better position on the road. Sometimes referred to as “white-lining” or other colloquialisms, many motorcyclists enjoy lane splitting as it can help them move ahead in traffic or move to the front of stopped traffic. However, motorcycle lane splitting is illegal in Washington under RCW § 46.61.608.
Summary of Lane Splitting and Washington Motorcycle Laws
Motorcycle lane splitting, lane filtering, and same-lane passing are illegal in Washington under RCW § 46.61.608, and compliance with these rules plays an important role in roadway safety and liability.
- Washington law prohibits riding between lanes of stopped or slow-moving traffic, including lane splitting and lane filtering at intersections.
- Motorcyclists must use a full lane, may not pass vehicles in the same lane, and may only share a lane with another motorcycle when no more than two are abreast.
- Additional Washington motorcycle laws include a universal helmet requirement and a prohibition on carrying passengers under age five.
Herschensohn Law, PLLC represents individuals in motorcycle accident matters across Chehalis, Seattle, and surrounding Washington communities, providing guidance on how state traffic laws may affect accident claims.
Is Motorcycle Lane Splitting Actually Dangerous?
The safety of motorcycle lane splitting is often the most prevalent point of contention in the surrounding debate. Is motorcycle lane splitting actually dangerous? While it may feel safer for motorcyclists, studies have so far been inconclusive. A study from UC Berkeley suggested that lane splitting was actually safer than simply following traffic, while other studies have contradicted this notion. However, other studies posit that the lack of exposure data and the size of the sample were not adequate. Generally, many scholarly organizations agree that the sample size many studies have used is too small to come to a definitive conclusion. The Washington Traffic Safety Commission states that the majority of motorcycle collisions, excluding motorcyclist negligence, are caused by right-of-way violations, which means that understanding legal rights of way may be a greater contributing factor.
Are Other Motorcycle Maneuvers Illegal?
Motorcycle lane splitting is not the only maneuver that could be dangerous on the road or illegal in Washington state. Understanding the requirements and right-of-way expectations in your state can help avoid accidents and protect against liability for damages. Lane sharing, lane filtering, and same-lane passing all have unique considerations under Washington law, and failure to adhere to these requirements could cause a motorcycle accident or influence liability in one.
For a detailed assessment of a motorcycle accident case, speak with a seasoned motorcycle accident lawyer from Herschensohn Law, PLLC today.
Lane Filtering
Lane filtering, sometimes called lane weaving, is another common technique used by motorcyclists to navigate traffic. Filtering is similar to motorcycle lane splitting, but not identical. While lane splitting involves driving between two lanes, splitting stopped or slow-moving traffic, lane filtering is specific to stopped traffic. Generally used at stoplights or other junctions, lane filtering is when a motorcyclist drives between or around stopped vehicles to move to the front of stopped traffic or find a more beneficial position. Like motorcycle lane splitting, this maneuver is also illegal under Washington state law.
Lane Sharing
Under RCW § 46.61.608, motorcyclists are also entitled to full use of lanes on the road, meaning that other vehicles cannot deny them full use of their lane. A vehicle and a motorcycle are not allowed to simultaneously use the same space on a lane, due to safety concerns and the risk of a motorcycle accident. However, this rule does not apply to motorcycles passing pedestrians and bicyclists in the same lane, provided they are given the statutory three feet of required distance. Additionally, motorcycles are permitted to share lanes with each other, with no more than two motorcycles abreast in a lane.
Same-Lane Passing
Same-lane passing is also restricted in Washington state. Motorcyclists are not allowed to overtake or pass other vehicles in the same lane, which may be considered motorcycle lane splitting in some areas. This type of passing could confuse or disorient the driver of a vehicle, place the motorcyclist in a vehicle's blind spot, or lead to other complications. Due to the risk of motorcycle accidents, this type of behavior is prohibited on Washington roads.
Washington State Motorcycle Laws
Motorcycle lane splitting is not the only legal restriction that motorcyclists must comply with on the road. Washington state also has several licensing requirements, passenger age requirements, and helmet laws that may play a role in both motorcyclist safety and legal liability. Understanding all of the relevant motorcycle laws in Washington can help prevent accidents and improve the chances of a motorcycle accident claim.
Helmet Laws
All motorcycle operators in Washington state are required by law to wear a helmet, with minimal exceptions for antique vehicles with other safety measures in place. Regardless of age or preference, helmets are required for motorcyclists under RCW § 46.37.530. Certain types of motorcycle helmets may also be required depending on the risk of the driver and more specific legislation. Meeting safety codes with effective head protection can also reduce the risk of traumatic head injuries.
Passenger Age Requirements
The very same statute also limits the age of passengers on a motorcycle. No motorcycle is permitted to transport an individual under the age of five. Due to the physiological development of young children and their inability to use many of the more common safety measures, riding on a motorcycle is deemed too dangerous. However, for children aged five and older, riding as a passenger on a motorcycle is generally up to the parent’s discretion.
Speak with a Washington Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
Washington motorcycle laws are often complex and can have unique implications depending on the nature of a motorcycle accident. For victims of vehicle accidents, the advice and support of an experienced motorcycle accident attorney in Chehalis, Washington, can be invaluable. Herschensohn Law, PLLC has served personal injury clients in the Seattle area for decades, and is proud to have won several multi-million dollar settlements for injured plaintiffs. To learn more about your legal rights after a motorcycle lane splitting accident, call the office at (206) 222-9553 to speak with a personal injury attorney.
Important FAQs About Motorcycle Lane Splitting
The following FAQs address common legal and safety questions related to motorcycle lane splitting and related traffic rules in Washington.
Is Motorcycle Lane Splitting Legal in Washington?
Motorcycle lane splitting is illegal in Washington under RCW § 46.61.608. The statute requires motorcyclists to occupy a full lane and prohibits riding between lanes of traffic.
What Is the Difference Between Lane Splitting and Lane Filtering?
Lane splitting involves riding between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic. Lane filtering applies only to stopped traffic, such as at intersections, but it is also illegal under Washington law.
Can Motorcycles Share a Lane With Other Vehicles in Washington?
No vehicle and a motorcycle may occupy the same lane at the same time. Motorcycles are entitled to full use of a lane, and same-lane passing is prohibited.
Are Motorcycles Allowed to Share Lanes With Each Other?
Yes, Washington law allows motorcycles to share a lane with other motorcycles. No more than two motorcycles may ride abreast in the same lane.
Is Same-Lane Passing Allowed for Motorcyclists?
Same-lane passing is not permitted in Washington. Overtaking another vehicle within the same lane may increase the risk of collisions and may influence liability.
Does Washington Require Motorcyclists to Wear Helmets?
Washington has a universal helmet law under RCW § 46.37.530. All motorcycle operators and passengers must wear a compliant helmet, with limited exceptions for certain antique vehicles.
Are There Passenger Age Restrictions on Motorcycles in Washington?
Yes, no motorcycle may transport an individual under the age of five. This rule is intended to reduce the risk of serious injury to young children.
How Do Lane Splitting Violations Affect Motorcycle Accident Claims?
A violation of traffic statutes may influence how fault is assessed after a collision. In some cases, noncompliance with lane usage laws could affect liability determinations.
How Can Herschensohn Law, PLLC Help With a Washington Motorcycle Accident Case?
Consider visiting with an experienced attorney at Herschensohn Law, PLLC to learn more about legal options after a motorcycle accident. The team works to ensure individuals understand how Washington traffic laws may apply to their specific circumstances and potential claims.
