Is lane splitting legal in NJ? It is always a challenge for motorcycle commuters in New Jersey to make their commutes more convenient and quicker. One way to do this is by lane splitting. Do New Jersey drivers have the right to split lanes? The answer is both yes and no. Read on to find out the dos and don’ts of lane splitting in New Jersey.
📌 Quick Answer: No, Lane Splitting Is Currently Illegal in NJ
- New Jersey law (NJSMV §39:4‑88) mandates that motorcycles remain within a single lane.
- Law enforcement can issue citation under improper passing or reckless driving (NJSMV §39:4‑97).
- There’s no official exception or allowance for filtering through slow traffic.
Riders caught lane splitting risk fines, points on their license, and higher insurance premiums.
Why NJ Bars Lane Splitting
- Risky Manoeuvres – Unexpected movement between cars raises collision risk from sudden lane changes.
- Driver Surprise – Many drivers don’t anticipate motorcycles squeezing by, increasing crash chances.
- No Speed Guidelines – Unlike California, NJ does not have regulated, low-speed filtering rules.
Penalties & Insurance Impact
- Fines alone may seem minimal, but they often come with license points.
- Your insurer could increase rates after a traffic violation.
- If you crash while lane splitting, NJ’s modified comparative negligence law may reduce your compensation if deemed partially at fault.
The Legislative Push: Changing the Law
- Assembly Bill A4668 was introduced in 2022, proposing to allow lane filtering at speeds ≤ 15 mph in stopped traffic.
- Though still under consideration, this bill reflects growing support for regulated lane splitting.
Best Safety Practices (Even When It’s Illegal)
If you ride in NJ, follow these principles:
- Stay Within a Lane – Avoid lane splitting entirely on NJ roads.
- Boost Visibility – Use high-vis gear and headlights day and night.
- Ride Defensively – Keep distance from larger vehicles with blind spots.
- Look for Hazards – Watch for potholes, debris, or opening car doors.
- Stay Alert – Never assume other drivers see you; anticipate sudden lane changes.
Why Some States Allow It
- Reduced Rear-End Crashes – Studies from California show fewer low-speed rear-end collisions.
- Less Congestion & Emissions – Filtering enables smoother traffic flow and reduces engine idling.
- Stronger Rider Awareness – Properly regulated lane splitting encourages defensive, attentive riding.
Why NJ Decided Against It
Safety Concerns – Close proximity to vehicles without regulated speed limits increases hazard potential.
Lack of Driver Training – NJ drivers aren’t accustomed to motorcycles weaving lanes safely.
Enforcement Challenges – Without clear guidelines, enforcing safe filtering is inconsistent and complex.
Final Words
Lane splitting remains illegal in New Jersey. Until legislation like Assembly Bill A4668 passes, motorcyclists should avoid filtering and stick to riding within a single lane. Violating this guideline can lead to legal and financial consequences—and in the event of an accident, it can hurt your ability to claim damages.
If you support safer, regulated lane splitting in NJ, consider staying informed and contacting your state representatives about upcoming traffic law reforms.
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