What Is Lane Splitting and Is It Legal?

Lane splitting, also called white lining or (loosely) filtering, is when a motorcyclist rides between lanes of same-direction traffic. Rules vary by state, and violations can impact fault, tickets, and insurance after a crash. If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle collision, call GroverLawKC at 913-432-1000 for a free case review.

Lane Splitting vs. Filtering vs. Lane Sharing

• Lane splitting (white lining): Riding between two active lanes traveling the same direction.
• Filtering: Easing to the front of a queue between stopped/slow cars (often at lights).
• Lane sharing: Two motorcycles riding abreast in a single lane (side-by-side).

Knowing the difference matters—states treat each maneuver differently, which can affect citations, liability, and insurance coverage.

Is Lane Splitting Legal in Kansas?

Kansas does not permit lane splitting. Riders should not ride between lanes of traffic. Kansas does allow lane sharing (two motorcycles side-by-side in one lane). A lane-splitting citation—or an officer’s conclusion that the maneuver was unsafe—can affect fault assessments after a collision.

Practical tip: If a crash occurs while attempting to pass slowed traffic, expect insurers to argue comparative fault. Document conditions (speed, spacing, visibility) and do not give a recorded statement before speaking with counsel.

Is Lane Splitting Legal in Missouri?

Missouri law does not explicitly authorize lane splitting. While not expressly green-lighted, riders can still be cited under unsafe operation or similar rules depending on conditions and officer discretion. Lane sharing is permitted in Missouri.

Practical tip: Because lane splitting is often disfavored by law enforcement and insurers, it can complicate claims. Preserve helmet-cam footage (if any), identify witnesses, and note traffic speed and lane position at the time of the incident.

Safety & Liability: Why This Matters for Your Claim

Even without a ticket, lane-position choices can shape:

• Fault arguments (insurers may claim “unsafe passing” or “improper lane use”).
• Causation (visibility, blind spots, driver expectation).
• Damages (helmet use, speed, and conspicuity can be debated).

If another driver merged without checking mirrors, drifted over the line, or made an unsafe lane change, that evidence can outweigh insurer arguments about your positioning.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Crash (Kansas & Missouri)

• Call 911 and get medical care; ask that the police report note lane position and the other driver’s maneuver.
• Preserve evidence: photos/video, skid marks, impact points, debris field, lane markers, lighting, and your riding gear.
• Identify witnesses and nearby business or traffic cameras.
• Avoid recorded statements to insurers until you’ve talked to a lawyer.
• Track every bill and record: ER, imaging, ortho, PT, pharmacy, missed work.
• Free Consultation: Call 913-432-1000 or contact GroverLawKC to speak with a Kansas City motorcycle accident lawyer about liability, insurance coverage, and next steps.

Common Questions About Lane Splitting in Kansas & Missouri

Is lane sharing legal?

Yes, two motorcycles side-by-side in one lane is permitted in both Kansas and Missouri.

Will lane splitting automatically make me at fault?

Not automatically. Fault depends on all circumstances (driver’s unsafe lane change, signaling, speed, traffic conditions, your lane position, visibility).

Can I recover damages if I was filtering at a light?

Often yes. Even if an adjuster claims comparative fault, you may still recover reduced damages depending on each state’s rules and the facts.