In California, Motorcycle "Lane Splitting" Legal if Done Properly

June 30, 2012

In California, Motorcycle "Lane Splitting" Legal if Done Properly

Two cars, side-by-side, are motoring along two lanes of a California highway. Though the cars are only feet away from each other, a motorcycle cuts in, traveling in between the two lanes. This is known as "lane splitting," which is legal in California when done in a safe and prudent manner. When motorcyclists ride too fast, though, it can quickly turn fatal; motorcyclists are about 39 times more likely to die in crashes than car occupants, according to the California Office of Traffic Safety.

Only about half of California drivers know lane splitting is legal, according to an OTS survey. However, it is extremely common: 87 percent of riders responded that they lane split, the survey showed.

Motorcycle Fatalities on Decline

OTS recommends that riders stay cognizant of the following to avoid motorcycle accidents:
-Overall traffic speeds
-Speed differences among vehicles
-Vehicle spacing
-Lane-changing patterns of traffic

After a decade of increasing motorcycle accident fatalities, it appears that California's roads are getting safer; in 2009, motorcycle fatalities decreased by 30 percent, according to the San Jose Mercury News. Motorcycle accident injuries also fell. Factors contributing to these declining numbers include OTS and the California Highway Patrol making May Motorcycle Safety Month and putting up electronic signs urging motorists to watch for motorcycles.

Motorcycle Safety Tips

OTS and CHP also want motorists to follow these tips for motorcycle safety:
-Never drive while distracted or under the influence of drugs or alcohol
-Never tailgate
-Check mirrors and blind spots before entering or exiting intersections or lanes of traffic
-Always signal before changing lanes or merging
-Allow three or four seconds of following distance when behind a motorcycle so it has enough time to maneuver or stop in an emergency
-Be aware that motorcycle signals are often not self-canceling; wait to see if motorcycles are turning or not

Drivers, riders or passengers involved in motor vehicle accidents should speak with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney to learn more about their legal options arising out of the accident.

Article provided by Law Offices of Elia J. Castranova
Visit us at http://www.injurylawyerencino.com/