Is Lane Splitting Legal in New Hampshire?

What is lane splitting? 

Lane splitting is riding a motorcycle between lanes or rows of slow-moving or stopped traffic going in the same direction. It allows riders to save time, since they are able to bypass traffic congestion. Some people actually think it is safer than stopping behind stationary vehicles. Research shows it can reduce rear-end collisions.

I see it all the time when I visit cities like NYC or Boston, and I always think to myself, "DANG, these motorcyclists are bold and brave!" But also, I am jealous of them. They are getting to where they are going a lot faster than the rest of us chumps sitting here in traffic.

According to Callagylaw.com:

"California is the only state where lane splitting is legal. There are 12 other states in which the practice is questionable, such as Texas, Montana, Missouri, Arkansas, and North Carolina. That doesn’t mean it’s “legal,” per se, but it is not mentioned in statutes or explicitly outlawed. "

So there's our answer. Lane splitting is in fact illegal in the state of New Hampshire. Section 265:121 explains:

“no person shall drive a motorcycle on a roadway between lanes of traffic or between adjacent lines or rows of vehicles.”

Under New Hampshire state law, motor vehicles also need to ensure that motorcyclists around them can make full use of the lane.

The irony? New Hampshire doesn’t require motorcyclists to wear helmets! However, eye protection like a face shield or goggles is required unless the motorcycle is equipped with a windshield. The Granite State cares about your eyeballs, but not so much your noggin.