Is Lane Splitting Legal in Michigan? [Updated 2025]

We’ve all seen it. In the midst of rush hour traffic, a motorcyclist coasts through the space between waiting cars. The practice is called lane splitting, and you may be wondering, “Is lane splitting legal in Michigan?” Understanding Michigan’s laws regarding lane splitting can help drivers and motorcyclists navigate these complex situations.

Is Lane Splitting Legal in Michigan? Understanding State Laws

Lane splitting is not legal in Michigan. Motorcyclists must remain in their designated lane and cannot pass between vehicles. This law applies to major highways like I-75 and US-23, where lane splitting could lead to serious collisions due to high-speed traffic.

Any accident that results from lane splitting at high-risk intersections, like Telegraph Road & 12 Mile Road in Southfield or Mound Road & 15 Mile Road in Sterling Heights, could lead to liability disputes. A personal injury lawyer team can help determine fault and protect your rights if you are involved in such an accident. While you might see lane splitting on the road, it is important to remember that this practice places the motorcyclist and nearby drivers in danger.

The Risks and Consequences of Lane Splitting

Lane splitting is illegal in Michigan due to the danger this driving practice creates for people on roads and highways. On congested roads like I-696, M-10 (Lodge Freeway), and Woodward Avenue, any sudden lane changes by drivers could lead to an impact on a motorcyclist. Motorcyclists are harder to see due to their smaller profile. This increases the risk of a collision when motorcycle drivers weave between cars.

If an accident happens involving lane splitting, the motorcycle driver could be held partially or fully liable for causing the accident. At dangerous intersections like Grand River Avenue & Greenfield Road in Detroit or Hall Road & Schoenherr Road in Macomb, where visibility and traffic flow issues already contribute to crashes, lane splitting can further increase the chance of serious or fatal accidents.

Who Is Liable in an Accident Involving Lane Splitting?

Following a collision involving a motorcycle, liability is determined by examining evidence and looking for proof that one or more drivers violated a traffic law. Factors that insurance providers or police officers may consider when examining a crash site include road conditions, traffic flow, and driver behavior, among other factors.

Any motorcycle driver who engages in the unlawful practice of lane splitting would share some, if not all, liability for causing the collision. There may be a legitimate reason a motorcyclist turned into the dividing lane, such as to avoid a collision, but those arguments would have to be backed up with evidence and witness testimony.

Accidents on I-96, I-275, and M-59, where traffic congestion and merging lanes create additional hazards, often require accident reconstruction experts to establish fault. Even if you clearly believe the other driver was at fault, insurance providers can dispute liability. In some cases, liability can be shared.

What To Do if You’re Involved in a Lane-Splitting Accident

If you are involved in a lane-splitting accident, it is important to gather evidence as soon as you can. If you can safely do so, gather evidence from the scene of the collision. Photos of the accident scene, skid marks, witness statements, and the police report tied to the collision can all serve as important evidence to prevent you from being falsely accused of causing or contributing to the collision.

Whether the crash occurred on M-14, I-275, Southfield Freeway (M-39), or elsewhere, proving what happened can be challenging due to Michigan’s strict stance on lane splitting. Injured drivers may need to file a claim against the motorcyclist’s insurance. Insurance companies often go to great lengths to avoid paying legitimate claims. Many accident victims find that hiring legal representation improves their chances of securing compensation following a collision.

FAQs

What Are the Consequences of Lane Splitting in Michigan?

Potential consequences of lane splitting in Michigan may include a traffic ticket for illegal lane usage or reckless driving, points on the driver’s license, and possibly higher insurance premiums. If a motorcyclist causes an accident while lane splitting in Michigan, they could be held liable for the illegal maneuver, affecting their ability to recover needed compensation for their damages and injuries.

Is Lane Splitting Illegal in Michigan?

Yes, lane splitting is illegal in Michigan. State law MCL – Section 257.660 requires motorcyclists to stay within a single lane and prohibits riding between lanes of traffic. Motorcyclists who engage in lane splitting may face traffic citations and liability if an accident occurs while performing the maneuver. If an accident involves a motorcycle driver splitting lanes, they could be found partially or fully liable for causing the collision.

What Is the Difference Between Lane Filtering and Lane Splitting?

Lane splitting allows motorcyclists to ride between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic, typically at any speed. Lane filtering, which is permitted in some states, is a more restricted practice that allows motorcycles to move between lanes only at low speeds, usually to navigate congested intersections. Both practices are unlawful in Michigan, where motorcyclists are required to remain in their lane.

What Happens if a Lane-Splitting Motorcyclist Hits Your Vehicle?

If a motorcyclist collides with your vehicle while lane splitting in Michigan, they may be held liable since lane splitting is illegal. However, insurance companies will examine factors like speed, traffic conditions, and driver awareness before assigning liability. If the driver was changing lanes or turning, they could share some responsibility. A thorough investigation, including witness statements and traffic camera footage, may be necessary to determine fault.

Schedule Your Lane Splitting Consultation Today

Lane splitting isn’t legal in Michigan, but that doesn’t stop some motorcyclists from weaving between cars and putting others at risk. When a rider’s reckless maneuver leads to a crash, insurance companies may try to downplay their responsibility.

At Wigod & Falzon, we fight for drivers who are unfairly caught in these situations. If you were wrongfully accused of lane splitting, we can defend you, too. For decades, motorists in Michigan have relied on our esteemed team to see them through difficult times. Contact our office today to schedule your initial consultation.