Is it OK for motorcycles in SC to ‘lane-split’ in traffic? Here’s what state law says
Have you ever been sitting in standstill traffic on the interstate and noticed a motorcycle going in and out of lanes to get ahead?
It may appear quick and convenient when a motorcycle weaves through stopped or slow-moving traffic, but in South Carolina, that move is not just risky, it’s illegal.
South Carolina law clearly bans “lane splitting” and “lane filtering,” practices where motorcycles ride between lanes of traffic or weave through cars.
With more than 2,000 motorcycle crashes reported statewide in 2023, understanding the rules of the road is important for the safety of yourself and others.
Here’s a breakdown of the law and other rules for motorcyclists to keep in mind to stay safe on the road.
What does SC law say?
According to South Carolina Code Section 56-5-3640, motorcycles are granted the full use of a traffic lane, just like any other vehicle. This means:
- A motorcycle has the right to use a whole traffic lane, just like a car.
- A motorcycle can’t pass another vehicle by riding next to it in the same lane. They must change lanes to pass.
- Riding between lanes of traffic by lane splitting or weaving between cars that are in different lanes is not allowed in South Carolina.
- Only two motorcycles can ride next to each other in a single lane.
Although the law doesn’t outline specific penalties for these violations, motorcyclists caught lane splitting or weaving may face citations, fines and points on their driving records.
The one exception to this exists for law enforcement officers operating motorcycles while on duty, as they are allowed to maneuver between lanes when necessary.
California is the only state that allows motorcycles to lane split. Other states, including Utah, Arizona and Montana, permit lane filtering in specific scenarios, which allows riders to move their bike between stationary or slow-moving vehicles.
Why it matters
According to the 2023 Traffic Collision Fact Book by the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, an accident occurred every 3.6 minutes, and a motorcyclist died every 2.9 days.
2,134 motorcycle crashes were reported in South Carolina in 2023. 125 of those were fatal.
In 48% of fatal motorcycle crashes, the rider was not wearing a helmet, pointing to other important laws for motorcyclists on the road:
Motorcycle helmet law in South Carolina
South Carolina law only requires that riders and passengers under 21 years old wear a helmet approved by the Department of Public Safety. These helmets must include a chin or neck strap and be reflectorized on both sides.
Headlight law for motorcycles in South Carolina
Section 56-5-4460 says all motorcyclists must keep headlights on at all times while operating on public roads or highways — day or night, which is intended to help improve visibility and reduce crashes.
This law states that failure to comply can result in a misdemeanor charge, a $25 fine or up to 10 days in jail.
Manner for operating motorcycles in South Carolina
South Carolina Code Section 56-5-3630 outlines how riders can operate their motorcycles:
- The operator must ride only on the motorcycle’s regular, built-in seat.
- Passengers are only allowed if the motorcycle is specifically designed to carry more than one person, using either a two-person seat or a securely attached second seat.
- Passengers must not sit in a way that blocks the operator’s view or control of the motorcycle.
- Riders must sit facing forward, astride the seat, with one leg on each side of the motorcycle.
- Operators cannot carry anything that prevents them from keeping both hands on the handlebars at all times.
- It’s illegal for a motorcycle rider to grab onto or be towed by another vehicle on the road.
