Watch Out for Motorcyclists as California Moves Toward Legalizing Lane-Splitting

Watch Out for Motorcyclists as California Moves Toward Legalizing Lane-Splitting

What is lane-splitting? Perhaps you’ve noticed in heavy traffic that is slow moving or stopped, motorcycles will sometimes drive on the dashed line between lanes to pass vehicles. You’ve probably seen it happen often enough that you may have already thought this was a legal maneuver. Recently, California law has acknowledged this practice for the first time, authorizing the California Highway Patrol to develop safety guidelines regarding lane-splitting. The bill does everything but plainly say the practice is legal.

What Does This Mean for Drivers?

It’s already important to look out for motorcyclists. One study performed in California revealed that nearly 6,000 motorcycle accidents occurred in a 15-month period. Interesting, about 17% of those accidents were related to lane-splitting. Now that the practice has been all but legalized, vehicle drivers need to be more conscious of this maneuver than ever.

Regardless of how you feel about the safety of the practice, its acceptance by California legislation could lead to larger settlements for motorcyclists injured while lane-splitting legally.

If You Have Been Injured While Lane-Splitting

If you are a motorcyclist who has been injured while lane-splitting legally, you may be deserving of compensation from the offending driver or from an insurance company. Whether your bike is damaged, you have mounting medical bills, or you need compensation for the pain and suffering you sustained due to the accident, Petrov Law Firm can help you to receive your due compensation. Call 619-344-0360 to get your claim started today.