Riding a motorcycle in California is an exhilarating experience that allows you to maneuver through traffic with ease with riding techniques, such as lane splitting. In addition to lane splitting, another technique used by motorcyclists is lane filtering, which involves moving between lanes of stopped or slow-moving traffic. However, the term “lane splitting” is often viewed negatively. The better term is “lane sharing,” as defined by the California lane splitting law.
While it’s essential to obey all traffic laws and regulations while riding for your safety and the safety of others, lane splitting is legal if done safely. In California, you are legally allowed to engage in lane splitting, sometimes called lane sharing, as a way to reduce time spent in traffic. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, lane splitting on multiple-lane roads slightly reduces accident frequency compared to staying within the lane and moving with other traffic. Of course, not all drivers of passenger vehicles and trucks are paying attention, so you must be careful and assume that drivers do not see you, and your speed should not be significantly higher than that of the rest of traffic. In other words, use reasonable care.
If you suffered injury in a motorcycle accident, insurance companies may resort to denying or diminishing your claim by alleging you contributed to your accident by lane splitting or attempting to exploit the prejudice against motorcycles to mischaracterize the accident and blame you for the negligence of another motorist. At Jassim Law, we are undaunted by the unfair prejudices and misconceptions that affect motorcycle riders and their ability to recover compensation. We are experienced in California motorcycle law and have a lengthy track record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients in San Diego and surrounding areas.
What Is Lane Splitting in California?
Lane splitting is a practice where motorcyclists ride between lanes of stopped or slow-moving traffic. It’s a common sight on California roadways, and many motorcyclists view it as a way to avoid traffic congestion and reduce the risk of being rear-ended.
In 2016, California became the first US state to explicitly legalize lane splitting, marking the beginning of legalized lane splitting in the state. It defines it as a motorcycle being ridden “between rows of stopped or moving vehicles in the same direction in the same lane, including on both divided and undivided streets, roads, or highways.” The law allows motorcyclists to lane split when it is safe to do so.
Additionally, since many motorcycles are air cooled as opposed to being water cooled, lane splitting in traffic helps to avoid motorcycles from overheating.
Despite being legal, lane splitting can still be dangerous for inexperienced or reckless motorcyclists. You must ensure you adhere to the speed limit and ride cautiously, as many motorists simply do not have due regard for motorcyclists.
California Lane Splitting Laws and Guidelines
To ensure your safety, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) developed guidelines related to lane splitting to reduce the risk of suffering an accident, which include the following:
- Evaluate your total surroundings when you are lane splitting
- You increase your chances of an accident at higher speeds and speed differentials
- It may be safer to split between the far left lanes than the other traffic lanes
- Avoid lane splitting beside large vehicles, such as trucks
- It is illegal to ride on the shoulder, and it is not considered lane splitting
- Avoid blind spots of other vehicles
- Wear brightly colored/reflective protective gear and use high beams during daylight
- Ensure you stay within marked lanes while lane splitting to comply with traffic laws
These guidelines help ensure that lane splitting is done safely, contributing to smoother traffic flow and reduced congestion.
Suppose you suffered injuries while lane splitting due to a negligent motorist. In that case, it is essential to speak with a skilled San Diego motorcycle accident lawyer promptly to protect your legal rights.
Lane Splitting and Legal Liability
Lane splitting and legal liability are closely intertwined, especially when it comes to determining fault in the event of an accident. In California, where lane splitting is explicitly legal, motorcyclists are not automatically deemed at fault simply because they were splitting lanes. In lane splitting legal states like California, motorcyclists are not automatically deemed at fault simply because they were splitting lanes. However, liability can still fall on the motorcyclist if their actions are found to be negligent or reckless.
In states where lane splitting is not explicitly legal, the situation becomes more complex. Motorcyclists may be more likely to be held liable for an accident because lane splitting could be seen as a violation of traffic laws. This perceived violation can lead to the motorcyclist being considered negligent.
Understanding the laws and regulations surrounding lane splitting in your state is crucial. Motorcyclists should always exercise caution and adhere to safety guidelines when engaging in this practice. If you find yourself involved in an accident while lane splitting, seeking the advice of a qualified attorney can help determine your liability and potential damages. At Jassim Law, we are well-versed in the intricacies of lane splitting laws and are prepared to advocate for your rights.
International Perspective on Lane Splitting
Lane splitting is a common practice in many countries around the world, particularly in Europe and Asia. In the United Kingdom, for instance, lane splitting is explicitly allowed and considered a safe and acceptable practice. The UK’s Highway Code even advises motorcyclists to use their judgment when deciding whether to split lanes, taking into account factors such as traffic speed, road conditions, and the presence of other vehicles. Many countries are considering legalizing lane splitting due to its potential benefits for traffic congestion and motorcyclist safety.
In Australia, the situation is a bit different. While lane splitting is not explicitly allowed, it is not prohibited either. Motorcyclists are advised to exercise caution when riding in heavy traffic and to avoid splitting lanes unless it is safe to do so.
In Asia, lane splitting is a common and generally accepted practice, especially in countries like Japan and Indonesia. Motorcyclists in these regions often use lane splitting as a way to navigate through heavy traffic, and it is considered a safe and efficient method of travel.
The international perspective on lane splitting underscores the importance of understanding the laws and regulations in different countries and regions. Motorcyclists should always exercise caution and follow local traffic laws when engaging in lane splitting. Whether you are riding in California or abroad, staying informed and riding responsibly are key to ensuring your safety and the safety of others on the road.
Lane splitting can be a controversial topic among motorcyclists and drivers alike. Lane splitting and filtering maneuvers can be safe and effective ways to navigate through heavy traffic, but they require a combination of knowledge, skills, and attention to safety guidelines and best practices. Understanding the rules and regulations in your area is crucial, as laws regarding lane splitting vary significantly from one place to another.
Contact the Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyers at Jassim Law
Lane splitting is legal in California but must be done safely and responsibly – just like operating any other vehicle on the roadway. Motorcyclists who choose to lane share must stay alert and visible at all times and should assume that other motorists may not act safely. In some states, lane filtering is only permitted on roads with at least two lanes of traffic traveling in the same direction.
If you were injured in a lane-splitting accident due to a motorist’s negligence, the lawyers at Jassim Law are prepared to fight for you. We work hard not just to recover necessary compensation for victims but also to make communities safer places to live. Our personal injury lawyers in San Diego have the extensive resources and skills to fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. Schedule a no-cost consultation by calling (619) 630-2680 or completing our contact form.