Motorcycle lane-splitting is the practice of riding a motorcycle in between two rows of slowing-moving or stopped traffic. In many states, lane-splitting by motorcycles is strictly forbidden. However, you can lane-split in Stockton County and the San Joaquin Valley.
Lane-splitting is a legal practice in California—assuming certain safety precautions are observed by the motorcyclist. In this article, our Stockton motorcycle accident attorney provides a more detailed overview of the key things to know about lane-splitting crashes in California.
Motorcycle Lane-Splitting is Legal in California
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) explains that motorcycle lane-splitting is legal in California. When engaging in lane-splitting, motorcyclists have a responsibility to do it safely and to follow certain rules and requirements. State lawmakers passed a motorcycle lane-splitting reform law (Assembly Bill No. 51) that took effect in early 2017. Here are four key things to know about the bill:
- Motorcycle lane-splitting remains a lawful practice in California;
- Motorcycle lane-splitting is only allowed if it can be done safely;
- When lane-splitting, motorcyclists can only ride a maximum of 10 miles per hour (MPH) faster than the surrounding traffic; and
- Motorcycle lane-splitting is strictly forbidden when traffic is moving at a speed of 35 MPH or greater.
Every Motorcycle Accident Requires a Comprehensive Investigation
Unfortunately, accidents happen. A crash could occur while a motorcyclist is engaged in lane-splitting in Central California. There is a temptation for other motorists, law enforcement officers, and insurance companies to blame a motorcyclist for a lane-splitting accident.
However, that is not how the system works in California. Motorcyclists have a clear right to engage in lane-splitting as long as certain conditions are met. They are not automatically liable for a crash that occurs. These are fault-based cases.
Every motorcycle lane-splitting accident requires a detailed-driven investigation by a Stockton, CA motorcycle accident lawyer. The responsible party (or parties) must be held accountable. Another driver may be legally responsible for a motorcycle lane-splitting crash.
Recovering Financial Compensation After a Motorcycle Crash
After a serious collision, injured motorcyclists need full financial compensation to pay their bills. Lane-splitting crashes are no exception. You have the right to seek money damages for both economic and intangible losses. Our Stockton motorcycle accident lawyers fight hard to help victims get every penny of compensation that they deserve. Following a motorcycle lane-splitting accident in the San Joaquin Valley, you may be entitled to get a settlement or verdict that includes:
- Motorcycle repairs;
- Emergency room care;
- Health care bills;
- Lost wages;
- Diminished earning potential;
- Pain and suffering;
- Physical disfigurement;
- Long-term disability; and
- Wrongful death.
Speak to a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Stockton, CA
At Redkey Gordon Law Corp, our Stockton motorcycle accident lawyer fights tirelessly to protect the rights of riders. If you were involved in a motorcycle lane-splitting crash, we are here to protect your best interests. Contact us now to set up a strictly confidential review of your motorcycle accident claim. Our firm handles motorcycle accident injury claims in Stockton and throughout the area.