Motorcycle Lane Splitting in PA: Legal or Not?
If you ride a motorcycle in Pennsylvania, you’ve probably wondered: Can I legally ride between cars in traffic? Whether you call it lane splitting or lane filtering, the laws in Pennsylvania are clear and the penalties for breaking them can be serious.
Let’s break down the differences, explain what’s legal in the Keystone State, and give you the straight facts every rider needs to know.
What Is Lane Splitting?
Lane splitting refers to a motorcycle riding between two lanes of moving traffic going in the same direction. Riders often use this technique to bypass traffic jams or slowdowns, particularly on highways.
While this maneuver is legal in California, it’s not the case in most other states. Pennsylvania is one of the many states that do not allow lane splitting.
According to the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA), only California has officially legalized lane splitting statewide. The AMA supports further research and pilot programs to study its safety benefits.
What Is Lane Filtering?
Lane filtering is a similar practice. It usually happens at intersections, where a motorcyclist rides between stopped vehicles to reach the front of the line at a red light. Filtering typically occurs at low speeds and is designed to reduce rear-end collisions for motorcyclists.
Although it’s legal in a few states like Utah and Arizona, Pennsylvania does not permit lane filtering either.
Is Lane Splitting Legal in Pennsylvania?
No — lane splitting is illegal in Pennsylvania.
Under Title 75 of the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code, motorcycles must stay within a single lane, just like any other vehicle. If you ride between cars, you’re violating the law, and police officers can issue a citation for improper lane use or unsafe passing.
Even if you think you’re being cautious, the law doesn’t leave room for interpretation. In Pennsylvania, if you ride between lanes, you’re breaking the rules.
Is Lane Filtering Allowed in Pennsylvania?
Again, the answer is no. While the law doesn’t specifically name “lane filtering,” any action that involves weaving between stopped vehicles is treated the same as lane splitting.
If you’re not riding within your lane, you’re not riding legally in Pennsylvania.
This law can be especially confusing for riders visiting from states where filtering is permitted. Many out-of-state motorcyclists find themselves surprised—and ticketed—for doing something that’s legal back home.
What Happens If You’re Caught Lane Splitting?
Getting caught lane splitting in Pennsylvania can result in:
- Traffic citations
- Fines
- Points on your driver’s license
- Higher insurance premiums
- Liability in case of an accident
If you’re involved in a collision while lane splitting, you may be considered at fault, even if another driver contributed to the crash.
Why Is Lane Splitting Illegal in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania law prioritizes predictability and safety. Lawmakers argue that:
- Drivers don’t expect motorcycles to pass between them.
- Sudden movement between lanes increases crash risks.
- Narrow roads make it harder for riders to pass safely.
While some safety studies show that controlled lane filtering can reduce rear-end collisions, Pennsylvania has yet to adopt these findings into law.
Could the Law Change?
It’s possible, but not any time soon.
A few states have introduced pilot programs to study lane filtering or restricted lane splitting in specific areas. Pennsylvania has not proposed any new bills on this topic as of 2025.
That said, motorcycle advocacy groups continue pushing for change. As awareness grows and more data becomes available, Pennsylvania could revisit the issue—but for now, the law stands.
Final Takeaway: Don’t Risk It
If you’re riding in Pennsylvania, the law is clear: stay in your lane.
While lane splitting and filtering might seem like shortcuts, they come with real legal and financial consequences here in Pennsylvania. It’s simply not worth the risk—especially if you end up in an accident or face legal trouble.
Motorcycle Accident Attorneys in Warren, PA: Protecting Riders’ Rights
At The Travis Law Firm, our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys, who are riders themselves, are dedicated to representing motorcyclists injured by negligent drivers across Warren, Erie, Edinboro, Crawford County, and Northwestern PA. We understand the unique challenges riders face on the road and are well-versed in Pennsylvania’s motorcycle laws. If you practiced defensive driving but still suffered injuries in a crash or were cited for lane splitting, you may have a strong case for compensation.
Why Choose Us?
- Rider Advocates: Our attorneys ride, so we know the road from your perspective.
- Local Expertise: Serving Warren and surrounding areas with deep knowledge of Pennsylvania’s laws.
- Free Consultation: No obligation, just answers to help you explore your legal options.
Contact Us Today
For a free, no-obligation consultation, call (814) 277-2222 or reach out online to discuss your case. Let us fight for the compensation you deserve and protect your rights as a rider