No. Lane splitting remains illegal in West Virginia as of 2026, with no legislative or regulatory changes permitting motorcyclists to pass between lanes. The West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles enforces traffic statutes that prohibit lane filtering or sharing, aligning with state vehicle code interpretations. Violations may result in citations under reckless driving statutes, though enforcement varies by jurisdiction.
Key Regulations for Lane Splitting in West Virginia
- Statutory Prohibition: WV Code §17C-1-10 defines lane splitting as a form of unsafe lane changes, explicitly barring motorcyclists from occupying adjacent lanes simultaneously.
- Local Enforcement Discretion: County magistrates and municipal courts may interpret penalties differently, with some prioritizing education over fines for first-time offenders.
- 2026 Compliance Shift: Pending legislative proposals (e.g., HB 4212) face bipartisan opposition in the House Transportation Committee, maintaining the status quo absent federal motorcycling safety mandates.
The West Virginia State Police Traffic Enforcement Manual further clarifies that lane splitting conflicts with §17C-3-5’s requirement for vehicles to occupy a single lane. While neighboring states (e.g., Virginia) debate similar measures, West Virginia’s regulatory framework remains static, with no exemptions for motorcycles in congested traffic. Riders violating these provisions risk fines up to $100 and potential license points under §17C-5A-2.