Did you know that, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 4,985 motorcyclists lost their lives in crashes in 2018 alone? A good percentage of these accidents have been linked to lane splitting, a motorcycle maneuver that involves weaving between slow-moving cars in heavy traffic.
Motorcyclists will tell you about the thrills of lane splitting. They’ll say it’s the best way to beat traffic. However, if you take a good look at the statistics, you’ll find no reason to believe any of their notions.
You need legal assistance for a motorcycle accident injury. It’ll be tough to handle the complexities on your own. You need an attorney who can provide you with real-time insights about your situation.
In this article, we’ll be giving you a detailed account of what lane splitting is and how it contributes to motorcycle accidents.
What Is Lane Splitting?
Lane splitting, also known as white-lining or stripe-riding, is a technique used by motorcycle riders to navigate congested roads, especially when there is a traffic gridlock. When they do this, they move out of their designated lanes and maneuver between vehicles in an attempt to move forward.
This practice is mostly common in urban areas, where traffic is usually terrible. Lane splitting can be safe and efficient if the rider has all it takes to navigate the spaces while avoiding contact with other cars.
The topic of lane splitting is a divisive one. Advocates argue that it helps reduce traffic congestion and also tones down the likelihood of rear-end collisions for cyclists.
The opponents, on the other hand, are constantly expressing their concerns about the risk of potential accidents. And, seeing how dangerously close motorcyclists usually are to other vehicles, you can understand their concerns.
Is Lane Splitting Legal?
This is largely dependent on the region. In some places (California, for example), it is legal under specific circumstances. Meanwhile, in many other states and counties, they are considered a traffic violation and can attract heavy fines and punishments.
Before you go splitting lanes in a new location, find out whether their regional laws allow it. Familiarize yourself with the nuances and potential consequences of engaging in lane splitting.
Dangers of Lane Splitting for Motorcycle Riders
Here are some of the significant risks of lane splitting for motorcycle riders:
- Dangerous proximity to other vehicles: So many things can go wrong when a vehicle is too close to another. Collisions are one of the biggest potential risks.
- Visibility challenges: Because they are constantly changing lanes, it may be difficult for other drivers to anticipate or notice them coming. This unexpected movement often results in accidents that are sometimes fatal.
- Oblivious to road challenges: These riders are mostly focused on navigating lanes; sometimes they do not notice the uneven surfaces, debris, or other unexpected obstacles that lay in their path. These terrible road conditions can trigger an accident.
FAQ’s
What’s the safest lane for a motorcyclist?
The safest lane for a motorcyclist is often the one where they are most visible to other drivers. Typically, the far-left lane or the one in the center of the road can provide better visibility and more escape routes, reducing the risk of being overlooked by other vehicles.
How can lane splitting cause an accident?
Lane splitting can cause accidents if not done cautiously. Sudden maneuvers, misjudgments of vehicle speeds, or inattentive drivers are the biggest risks of lane splitting, and they often lead to collisions.
What’s the best lane position for turning a motorcycle?
The best lane position for turning a motorcycle is often the one that provides the best visibility and allows for a smooth and controlled turn. You should position yourself towards the outside of the lane where other drivers can see you and where you can execute a turn safely.
