April 23, 2026, 5:06 a.m. ET
Though motorcycles account for only 3% of registered vehicles, they account for around 15% of traffic fatalities ― and certain practices can make riding a motorcycle significantly more dangerous.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety notes that riding a motorcycle is inherently riskier than driving a car; motorcycles are harder for other drivers to see, less stable than passenger vehicles, and lack the protection of an enclosed occupant compartment typical of cars.
The organization urges motorcyclists to utilize a proper helmet, equipping their bikes with antilock braking systems and avoiding high-horsepower motorcycles sometimes known as “supersport motorcycles.”
A 2021 report from the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles found that there were 3,712 motorcycle accidents over the course of the year, of which 5% were fatal and 77% caused injuries. Many of these collisions were caused by interactions with passenger vehicles, including through a largely illegal practice known as “lane splitting.”
Here’s what to know about the legality of lane splitting, helmet-free riding and more in North Carolina.
What is lane splitting?
Lane splitting is when motorcyclists ride between lanes of traffic, often to navigate more quickly through congested streets. The practice is banned in 49 U.S. states due to safety risks.
What is lane filtering?
As explained by the Colorado Department of Public Safety in a news release regarding the Aug. 7, 2024, legalization of the practice, lane filtering is “the act of a rider passing a vehicle in the same lane but only when that vehicle and any traffic in adjacent lanes are at a complete stop.”
This maneuver can be used at stoplights or in gridlocked traffic, allowing motorcyclists to legally navigate toward the front of the line to avoid being sandwiched between vehicles.
Is it legal to split lanes on a motorcycle in North Carolina?
Kellum Law Firm confirms that lane splitting is illegal in North Carolina. While no law specifically outlaws the practice, motorcyclists are required to follow all of the same rules as other motor vehicles, including staying in a single lane and safely changing lanes.
What is the penalty for splitting lanes in North Carolina?
Being caught lane splitting in N.C. can land you with a traffic violation, such as failure to maintain lane control. Penalties can include fines and points added to your driver’s license, or even reckless driving charges in more severe instances.
Is lane splitting dangerous?
Lane splitting is dangerous due to limited space and reduced visibility. ConsumerShield.com notes that generally speaking, lane filtering can be less likely to cause accidents, as the rider is passing between stopped or slow-moving cars.
In what states is lane splitting legal? Lane filtering?
According to ConsumerShield.com, California is the only U.S. state that legally allows full lane splitting following a Jan. 1, 2017, modification to the state’s vehicle code. Additionally, the following states allow versions of lane filtering:
- Arizona
- Colorado
- Montana
- Minnesota
- Utah
Is it legal to ride a motorcycle without a helmet in North Carolina?
As of Jan. 1, 2008, N.C. law requires any person operating or riding on a motorcycle or moped to wear a safety helmet that is in compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 218.
Despite safety concerns, only 19 states and Washington, D.C. require helmets for all motorcyclists and passengers at all times.
Iris Seaton is the trending news reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at iseaton@citizentimes.com.
