Is Lane Filtering Legal in South Carolina?

Lane filtering is illegal in South Carolina. This means that it is not permitted for motorcycles to move between lanes of traffic to bypass congestion. If you were involved in an accident while lane filtering, it could affect the determination of fault in your case.

We’ve all seen it in movies and TV shows. Motorcyclists weave between lanes of stopped or slow-moving traffic, maneuvering effortlessly while other vehicles remain stuck. This practice, known as lane splitting, along with a similar technique called lane filtering, allows motorcyclists to keep moving in congested conditions and sometimes protects them from being stuck in between vehicles. Since motorcycles are smaller and more agile than cars, they have the ability to perform these unique maneuvers and zip through traffic.

However, while lane splitting may help motorcyclists avoid traffic delays, it also comes with significant risks that apply to both riders and other motorists. Because of these concerns, South Carolina has specific laws regarding lane splitting and filtering to help maintain everyone’s safety while on the road.

As avid motorcyclists ourselves, our team at The Lovely Law Firm is passionate about ensuring that riders in our community understand and follow state laws while practicing safe motorcycle operations. We understand that every state has its own set of rules when it comes to lane splitting, and it may be confusing when you are here on vacation or just recently moved to the area. Whether you’re an experienced rider or new to the hobby, knowing the legalities of lane splitting in South Carolina can help you ride smart, stay safe, and protect your rights in the event of an accident.

Lane Splitting Law In South Carolina

Lane splitting is illegal throughout the state of South Carolina. This maneuver is also referred to as white lining. According to South Carolina Code Section 56-5-3640, motorcyclists are prohibited from riding between traffic lanes or rows of vehicles, both when they are stopped or in motion. This means that riders must remain within their designated lane and cannot maneuver between or around cars, even in slow or stopped traffic.

Is Lane Filtering Legal In South Carolina

In addition to lane splitting, lane filtering is also illegal in South Carolina. The law explicitly states that a motorcycle must follow the same passing rules as other motor vehicles, meaning a motorcycle must change lanes completely when passing another vehicle rather than weaving through traffic or passing within the same lane.

Penalties For Lane Splitting Or Filtering

Violating these laws can result in a citation. The exact penalties for lane filtering and lane splitting will vary depending on the city or jurisdiction where the violation occurs, but motorcyclists caught lane splitting, or filtering may face fines and potential points on their driving record. Engaging in these maneuvers could also increase liability in the event of a South Carolina motorcycle accident and potentially impact a motorcyclist’s ability to recover compensation for damages in a crash.

Motorcyclists should always be aware of these lane splitting and filtering laws to avoid fines, penalties, and unnecessary risks on South Carolina’s roads. If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, The Lovely Law Firm is here to help you understand your rights and protect your best interests.

Is Lane Sharing Legal In South Carolina?

South Carolina does allow lane sharing in certain situations. While a motorcycle cannot share a lane with a car, state law permits two motorcycles to ride side by side within a single lane. However, no more than two motorcycles are permitted to ride next to each other in a single lane at a time.

Lane Splitting VS Filtering VS Sharing – What’s The Difference?

Motorcyclists often hear the terms lane splitting, lane filtering, and lane sharing, but each describes a different action. In South Carolina, knowing the differences is very important because some of these practices are illegal, while others are permitted under specific conditions.

• Lane Splitting (Illegal in South Carolina) – Lane splitting is considered to be when a motorcyclist rides between lanes of traffic. Typically, they are moving between cars that are stopped or moving slowly. This maneuver is commonly seen in California, where it is legal, but South Carolina law strictly prohibits lane splitting due to the risks it poses to both riders and other motorists on the road.
• Lane Filtering (Illegal in South Carolina) – Lane filtering is similar to lane splitting, but it typically happens at intersections or in heavy traffic that is moving at low speeds. A motorcyclist may try to move ahead of stopped vehicles to position themselves at the front of a traffic light so they are not trapped between cars. Like lane splitting, this practice is illegal in South Carolina under state traffic laws.
• Lane Sharing (Legal in South Carolina – With Restrictions) – Lane sharing refers to two motorcycles riding side by side within a single lane. South Carolina law allows this practice but limits it to only two motorcycles per lane (S.C. Code Section 56-5-3640). However, a motorcycle cannot share a lane with a car, and riders must maintain their own space when traveling alongside larger vehicles.

By understanding the distinctions between these maneuvers, South Carolina motorcyclists can stay compliant with state laws and ride safely.

Contact A South Carolina Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Near You

If you have questions about your rights as a motorcyclist or have been involved in an accident, The Lovely Law Firm is always here to help. Our experienced team of motorcycle accident lawyers in South Carolina understands the unique challenges motorcyclists face on the road, from unfair bias in accident claims to disputes over liability and insurance coverage. Whether you were injured due to a driver’s negligence, cited for an alleged traffic violation, or need guidance on South Carolina motorcycle laws, we are here to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.