Riding a motorcycle can be a thrilling adventure. Not only do you feel the wind as it whips past your face, you get to experience the open road in a way no car could ever rival. But, if you’re a motorcyclist in California, you’ve probably experienced your share of traffic as well. Navigating a motorcycle through traffic can be extremely difficult and dangerous.
California motorcyclists seem to have an advantage in traffic situations because they are able to “lane- split”. Lane-splitting is when a motorcycle drives forward in a space between two other vehicles. It’s usually done in traffic when cars are stopped. Motorcycles maneuver past stopped cars and continue moving forward. While this practice is dangerous in and of itself, it’s even more dangerous when you combine it with distracted and startled drivers. Lane-splitting is not only dangerous for motorcyclists, but for drivers as well.
Surprisingly, California is the only state that allows lane-splitting on crowded roads and freeways. Most states have deemed lane-splitting “unsafe”, yet this controversial practice is not mentioned in the California State Vehicle Code. Thankfully, California legislators have taken notice.
“Prompted by safety concerns, the Assembly last week approved a bill that would formally legalize lane-splitting, but would place restrictions on when and how cyclists can do it.
The bill, AB 51, limits motorcyclists to 15 miles per hour faster than the cars they are passing. It also prohibits motorcyclists from lane-splitting at speeds above 50 miles per hour.
That means, for instance, if freeway traffic slows to 35 miles per hour, motorcyclists can cut between cars at up to 50 miles per hour. But anytime freeway traffic is going 50 miles per hour or faster, motorcyclists legally would be banned from lane-splitting.” – www.sacbee.com
Nearly 80% of motorcyclists report that they lane-split. While this practice is common, the CHP is hoping this new bill will help decrease the amount of lane-splitting on California highways. The authors of this bill view it as a compromise. This bill should help limit the amount of lane-splitting, but still allow motorcyclists to avoid getting rear-ended while in heavy traffic.
If you are a commuter who’s been involved in an accident with a lane-splitting motorcyclist, contact Eason and Tambornini, A Law Corporation today. If you’re a concerned driver or motorcyclist who wants to learn more about this bill, we stay abreast on all new bills and laws affecting California motorists. We will help protect you and your family’s driving rights and privileges.
