def checkMaxDistance(split1, split2, maxDistance):
    """
    This function takes two split reference lists which refer to cleavages involved in cis splicing and returns if they
    are within the designated masDistance.
    :param split1: a split reference list for cis splicing: [start, end]
    :param split2: a split reference list for cis splicing: [start, end]
    :param maxDistance: the maximum distance two cleavages can be a part in the original peptide for them to be combined
    via cis splicing.
    :return: True if the splits are not within the designated maxDistance.
    """
    #print(maxDistance)
    # if the function is recieving a single amino instead of the split reference list, return False as max distance has
    # already been assured.
    if len(split1) == 1 or len(split2) == 1:
        return False
    # if either checks pass the splits satisfy max distance.
    if abs(split1[1] - split2[0]) <= maxDistance:
        return False
    if abs(split2[1] - split1[0]) <= maxDistance:
        return False
    return True