As a motorcyclist in Ohio, it’s important to be aware of the state’s motorcycle laws to protect yourself from legal, financial, and physical harm.
Lane splitting, the practice of riding a motorcycle between two lanes of traffic, is a dangerous maneuver that can easily lead to accidents and harm. If you’re wondering, is lane splitting legal in Ohio? The answer is no—it’s prohibited under current traffic laws.
The skilled attorneys at Gervelis Law Firm are dedicated to serving the needs of the injured in Ohio. In this article, you’ll find important information about the legal implications, safety concerns, and safer alternatives to lane splitting to help you stay informed and protected on the road.
What Is Lane Splitting?
Motorcyclists commonly use lane splitting to get out of traffic or pass slow-moving vehicles in the same lane. Generally, it looks like a motorcyclist swerving out from behind one vehicle and riding between two lanes of traffic until they reach a convenient point to reenter a lane. This practice is dangerous and not legal under Ohio state law.
Ohio Revised Code § 4511.55 states that motorcycles must operate within a single lane and prohibits passing between lanes of traffic. While Ohio law doesn’t explicitly mention lane splitting, motorcyclists may be cited for several related offenses. These include improper lane changes or failure to maintain lane as described in Ohio Revised Code § 4511.33.
Why Is Lane Splitting Illegal in Ohio?
Safety concerns are a primary reason that lane splitting on a motorcycle is illegal in Ohio. Motorcyclists riding between lanes pose an increased risk of accident for themselves and for other motorists on the road. This is due to factors such as reduced visibility and unexpected lane changes by other vehicles on the road.
Accidents caused by lane splitting can lead to serious injuries and death for motorcyclists. The Ohio State Highway Patrol reported that 1,045 motorcyclists were killed and 5,770 were seriously injured in traffic accidents in Ohio in 2024. You can help protect yourself from serious harm by staying in your own lane and obeying the rules of the road while riding.
There are also legal considerations to keep in mind as a motorcyclist in Ohio. For example, lane splitting often results in citations and penalties under existing traffic laws. Citations and penalties can affect your chances of being found liable in a legal proceeding and have the potential to reduce any compensation recovered in a legal claim. Getting into a motorcycle accident when riding between lanes can also have a negative impact on your insurance.
If you have questions about your rights after a motorcycle accident, the experienced Ohio motorcycle accident lawyers at Gervelis Law Firm are here to help.
What Are the Consequences of Lane Splitting in Ohio?
A motorcyclist in Ohio can face serious consequences for riding between lanes. These include:
- Fines and two points on the motorcyclist’s driving record: Getting caught lane splitting can result in costly citations and impact your driving history.
- Mandatory motorcycle safety training: A violation may require you to complete additional training courses at your own expense.
- Increased insurance premiums: Traffic violations like lane splitting often lead to higher insurance rates.
- Fault-based insurance claim denials: If lane splitting is a factor in an accident, insurers may use illegal lane splitting as a reason to deny coverage.
- Reduced compensation awards: Ohio’s comparative negligence laws may affect compensation in accident claims involving splitting lanes. Ohio law bars you from recovering any damages if you’re found more than 50% at fault for the accident.
Repeat perpetrators of lane splitting can face more severe legal consequences, including heavier misdemeanor charges, fines up to $500, license revocation, and up to 60 days in jail.
What Are Safe Practices for Riding a Motorcycle?
Following basic motorcycle safety practices is the most proactive measure you can take to protect yourself from injury while riding. Safety tips to keep in mind include:
- Maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles
- Be aware of surrounding traffic
- Take steps to improve your bike’s visibility, such as wearing bright or reflective gear and using headlights
- Avoid trying to ride between lanes, especially in heavy or fast-moving traffic
- Drive slowly on sharp turns and curves
- Sign up for a motorcycle safety course to enhance your riding skills and awareness
While everyone on the road is responsible for looking out for other motorists, you can’t rely on other drivers to look out for you while motorcycling. Practicing motorcycle safety is the best way to minimize your risk of accidents and serious harm.
Need Legal Help After a Motorcycle Accident in Ohio? Contact a Skilled Motorcycle Accident Lawyer at Gervelis Law Firm Today
If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident, Gervelis Law can help. Our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers serve all of Ohio, and our dedicated attorneys have secured major settlements for motorcycle accident survivors across Ohio, including a recent case where we settled a Youngstown motorcycle case for $300,000.
At Gervelis Law Firm, our experienced Ohio motorcycle accident attorneys work with accident victims every single day. Act fast and reach out now. The sooner you do, the sooner we can get started protecting your rights and building your case. Contact us online or call (866) 792-2728 to schedule your free legal consultation today.
