No, lane splitting remains illegal in Maryland under Transportation Article §21-1303, with no 2026 legislative shifts altering this prohibition. The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration enforces strict adherence, citing safety risks and lack of empirical data supporting its legalization. Riders violating this statute face fines up to $500 or potential license suspension.
Key Regulations for Lane Splitting in Maryland
- Statutory Prohibition: Transportation Article §21-1303 explicitly prohibits motorcyclists from overtaking vehicles within the same lane, classifying it as a moving violation.
- Local Enforcement: Maryland State Police and county sheriff’s departments uniformly cite violators, with Baltimore City and Montgomery County prioritizing high-visibility patrols in congested corridors.
- Penalties: Convictions result in a $140 fine (base) plus court costs, escalating to $500 for repeat offenses, alongside potential points on the rider’s license.
While neighboring Virginia permits lane filtering under specific conditions, Maryland’s General Assembly has repeatedly rejected bills like HB 1245 (2024) that sought to legalize the practice. Advocacy groups such as the Maryland Motorcycle Safety Program continue lobbying for reform, but no regulatory body has endorsed lane splitting as of 2026. Riders are advised to consult the Maryland Driver’s Manual or MVA’s Motorcycle Operator’s Guide for updates, as interpretations may evolve with federal safety initiatives.