It’s springtime again in our beautiful state. As Oregonians we know that doesn’t mean rainy days are behind us. But it does mean we’ll see more foot traffic on our favorite hiking trails, burgeoning farmers’ markets buzzing with enthusiastic locals, and eager motorcyclists finally getting to enjoy drier and warmer weather. But for motorcyclists in Oregon, navigating heavy traffic can be frustrating—especially when cars are inching along and you know your bike could easily slip between them. That maneuver, known as lane splitting or white lining, is legal in some states like California. But in Oregon, lane splitting is strictly prohibited—and engaging in it can have serious legal and financial consequences, especially if you’re involved in a crash.
What Is Lane Splitting?
Lane splitting refers to a motorcycle riding between lanes of slowed or stopped traffic. While it’s touted by some as a way to reduce congestion and protect riders from rear-end collisions, it also increases the risk of side-impact crashes, sudden door openings, and limited driver visibility.
Oregon’s Stance on Lane Splitting
As of now, Oregon law does not permit lane splitting. Under Oregon Revised Statutes 814.240 and traffic laws, all motor vehicles—including motorcycles—must remain within a single lane unless executing a legal lane change. If you’re found lane splitting, you could receive a traffic citation and be found partially or fully at fault if an accident occurs.
What If You’re in a Lane Splitting Accident?
If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident while lane splitting, the other driver may still be at fault, especially if they made an unsafe lane change or weren’t paying attention. However, your role in the accident will be closely examined under Oregon’s modified comparative fault rule (ORS 31.600). If you’re not more than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages—though they may be reduced. In Oregon, your partial fault does not prevent you from receiving partial compensation. The actions of both parties involved will be taken under consideration. 
What You Can Do
- Always ride defensively and remain within your lane.
- Stay visible, wear proper gear, and use your signals.
- Don’t be tempted to circumvent traffic by “zipping” next to another vehicle in the same lane, no matter how safe it may seem.
At Shlesinger & deVilleneuve, we have helped dozens of motorcyclists receive justice and fair compensation. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident—lane splitting or not—call us for a free consultation. We know motorcycle law and will get you results.
