Kansas City Motorcycle Lawyers Explain Lane Splitting Laws in Missouri and Kansas
As a beginner motorcycle rider, there are many important considerations to research before hitting the open road. You may look into what style of bike you would like to purchase, decide how much you are willing to spend, and even determine the best place to store it. While all of these factors are valuable, they do not outweigh the importance of understanding the laws that apply to riders. Many riders stop thinking about this crucial information as soon as they obtain their motorcycle license, which can lead to serious risks.
In 2023 alone, there were nearly 6,500 motorcycle rider fatalities, even though motorcycles account for only 3% of registered vehicles. Understanding and following the laws and regulations that apply to motorcycle riders is a key part of reducing the significant number of accidents and fatalities each year.
At Wallentine Injury Law, our Kansas City motorcycle lawyers stand with injured riders to extend support and protection during times when many may not believe their story. We also believe that proper education and preparation can help riders avoid the legal aftermath of an accident altogether. That is why we have put together the following information about motorcycle lane splitting laws across Missouri and Kansas for riders who frequently travel throughout the greater Kansas City metro.
We know that accidents are sometimes unavoidable, but our goal is to help prevent as many as possible and keep Kansas City roads safer. If you find yourself involved in a motorcycle accident, our trusted legal team is here to offer guidance and pursue justice. Contact InJerry Law today for a free consultation.
Is Lane Splitting Legal in Kansas City?
Motorcycle lane splitting, also called white-lining or lane filtering, is prohibited in Kansas City. Motorcycles must occupy their own full, designated lane and may not travel between lanes of traffic or rows of vehicles. This practice is restricted to roads within city limits under local ordinances.
Because Kansas City spans both Missouri and Kansas, it is important to understand how each state approaches lane splitting. While Kansas City explicitly bans the practice, Missouri law does not directly address lane splitting. However, riders in Missouri are still required to maintain proper lane usage, and lane splitting may be treated as unsafe or improper driving depending on the situation. In Kansas, lane splitting is explicitly prohibited under state law.
Next, we will take a closer look at the specific statutes and regulations that apply to motorcycle riders in Kansas City and across both states.
Lane Splitting Laws in Missouri vs. Kansas
As mentioned above, Kansas City strictly prohibits lane splitting under its own city ordinance, as Missouri does not have a specific law that directly addresses the practice at the state level. Similar to Kansas City, St. Louis has also enacted its own city ordinances that restrict this type of motorcycle operation.
Kansas City’s specific rules can be found in Article VIII, Section 70-743 of its Code of Ordinances. Key provisions of this section include:
- Motorcycles are entitled to full use of a lane, and no motor vehicle shall deprive them of this.
- Motorcycles shall not overtake and pass another vehicle within the same lane.
- No person shall operate a motorcycle between lanes of traffic or rows of vehicles.
- Motorcycles shall not be operated more than two abreast in a single lane.
While Missouri does not have a law that explicitly addresses lane splitting, it does require vehicles to remain within a single lane. Because of this, lane splitting is typically interpreted as improper lane usage. In practice, riders may still receive traffic citations for behaviors such as improper lane use or reckless driving, as lane splitting is often considered unsafe or negligent.
In contrast, Kansas explicitly prohibits lane splitting for motorcycles. Under Kansas Statutes Annotated 8-1595, motorcycles:
- Are entitled to full use of a single lane and shall not be deprived of this by any motor vehicle.
- Shall not overtake and pass another vehicle within the same lane.
- Shall not be operated between lanes of traffic or rows of vehicles.
- Shall not be operated more than two abreast in a single lane.
Depending on where you are riding throughout the Kansas City metro, the laws surrounding lane splitting can vary. For this reason, and for your overall safety, we encourage riders to avoid lane splitting. Doing so helps ensure compliance with applicable laws while also reducing the risk of accidents.
Rest assured, our Kansas City motorcycle lawyers are experienced in the laws and ordinances that may apply to your motorcycle accident claim and can help protect your rights while pursuing the compensation you deserve.
Can Lane Splitting Affect a Motorcycle Injury Settlement?
Lane splitting can certainly affect a motorcycle injury settlement and the amount of compensation you may receive after an accident. However, it does not necessarily result in an automatic denial of your claim.
If you are riding in a city or state where lane splitting is illegal, or doing so in a reckless manner in an area where it is not directly addressed, your ability to recover compensation may be impacted based on your percentage of fault under comparative negligence laws. In these situations, your compensation may be reduced depending on the circumstances and your level of responsibility.
Additionally, even if you followed all applicable laws and your actions did not directly cause the accident, insurance companies will still attempt to use lane splitting against you in a personal injury claim. They may characterize the behavior as unsafe and try to shift liability onto you in an effort to reduce the amount they pay.
For these reasons, we encourage riders to avoid lane splitting. Doing so not only helps protect your safety and the safety of others but also your percentage of liability in a Kansas City personal injury claim.
Other Missouri and Kansas Motorcycle Laws Kansas City Riders Should Know
Due to the inherent risks of operating a motorcycle, riders need to understand not only lane splitting laws but also the broader set of laws that apply to them. Our Kansas City motorcycle lawyers have compiled the following key regulations that all riders should be aware of:
Protective Gear Laws
In Missouri, riders under 26 years old must wear a DOT-approved helmet when operating a motorcycle. Riders over 26 may ride without a helmet if they can show proof of medical insurance coverage. In addition, eye protection is required unless the motorcycle is equipped with a windshield or windscreen.
In comparison, Kansas requires riders under the age of 18 to wear a helmet that meets National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standards. All riders must also wear eye protection unless the motorcycle has a windshield or screen that is at least 10 inches high.
If you frequently travel throughout the greater Kansas City metro, it is important to understand that helmet laws do not carry across state lines. For example, a 22-year-old rider who is not required to wear a helmet in Kansas would still be required to wear one when crossing into Missouri. For both legal compliance and safety, it is in your best interest to wear a helmet regardless of where you are riding. Doing so can help reduce the risk of serious injuries such as traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord damage that are common in motorcycle crashes.
Licensing
While the technical classification varies slightly, both Missouri and Kansas require riders to carry a special license to operate a motorcycle. In Missouri, riders must obtain a Class M license. In Kansas, riders are required to obtain a Class M endorsement. Both allow for the legal operation of a motorcycle within their respective states.
Traffic Laws
Motorcycles have the same rights and responsibilities as other motorists on the road. Despite the negative reputation that insurers may try to place on motorcycle riders, they should be held to the same standards as any other driver.
Where Do Motorcycle Accidents Happen Most Often in Kansas City?
Motorcycle accidents can occur anywhere. However, understanding where they happen most often can help improve overall safety. Whether you are a driver or a rider, it is crucial to exercise extra caution on the following dangerous roads across Kansas City:
- I-435
- I-35
- I-70
- U.S. 71
- Prospect Avenue
- Truman Road
In addition to these roadways, all motorists should be especially cautious at intersections throughout the greater Kansas City metro, as these are common locations for motorcycle accidents. Drivers may fail to see motorcycles or misjudge their speed when turning or crossing traffic, which can lead to serious collisions. When combined with risky behaviors such as lane splitting, the likelihood of an accident increases significantly.
What Should I Do After a Motorcycle Accident?
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, whether related to lane splitting or the general risks associated with riding, knowing the proper steps to take can make a significant difference in protecting your health and your legal rights. While the goal is always to prevent these situations, our Kansas City motorcycle lawyers want to help riders stay informed and prepared with the following steps:
- Move away from the roadway and check for injuries
- Call 911 immediately to report the accident and request assistance
- Seek medical attention and follow up with additional care if needed
- Exchange information, including driver’s license, insurance details, and contact information, with the other party
- Provide an accurate, fact-based account of the incident to law enforcement, while avoiding any statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault
- Contact a motorcycle accident attorney at Wallentine Injury Law for legal guidance and to help protect your rights
Please do not attempt any of these steps if you are physically unable. Your health and safety should always be the top priority, and any additional details can be addressed by our motorcycle accident attorneys at a later time.
Talk to a Kansas City Motorcycle Lawyer at Wallentine Injury Law
Motorcycle riding does not have to be complicated or unsafe. Understanding lane-splitting laws and other important regulations that apply to you as a rider can make a meaningful difference if you are ever involved in an accident across the greater Kansas City metro.
Our Kansas City motorcycle lawyers are here to answer your legal questions and provide guidance if you are injured due to another driver’s negligence. We are committed to standing as your advocate against insurance companies that may attempt to minimize or deny your compensation.
Call 816-934-6333 or contact us online today for a free consultation and take the first step toward recovery.
