What To Do in a Lane Splitting Motorcycle Accident
In California, lane splitting is codified under the California Vehicle Code §21658.1, and is legal. The law describes lane splitting as the means of operating a motorcycle between the rows of vehicles that are traveling in the same direction. While lane splitting can sometimes be beneficial for the rider, the act can cause serious accidents. If you or someone you know was lane splitting at the time of a collision, speaking to an established personal injury attorney can be beneficial. The Knez Law Group, LLP has the skills and resources necessary to efficiently and proficiently advocate on your behalf.
The motorcycle accident attorneys at the Knez Law Group, LLP are exceptionally versed in accident cases, including those involving the act of lane splitting. After you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, obtain the support of a well-established law firm that can help you obtain the justice you deserve. Consider hiring the Knez Law Group, LLP today to arrange a no-cost case evaluation.
The Law on Lane Splitting
Determining liability after a motorcycle accident involving lane splitting can be difficult because the law states that the action has to be carried out in a “safe and prudent” manner. Although it may seem obvious what “safe and prudent” means, such as not speeding or weaving in and out of traffic, the definition of “safe and prudent” will be up for interpretation.
Still, whenever a motorcyclist is injured in an accident while lane splitting, the opportunity to recover compensation for the injuries exists. Although there is serious misconception and prejudice against motorcyclists, injured riders still have every right to fight for compensation when they are injured in an accident caused by another’s negligence.
How Can Lane Splitting Lead to an Accident?
In a majority of situations, lane splitting can actually be a safe option for motorcyclists, since they do not have to worry about driving in front of aggressive drivers or behind unpredictable drivers that can stop suddenly. As a result of the small frame of motorcycles, these vehicles can generally travel safely between vehicles when under the right conditions.
Lane splitting can become highly dangerous when there are reckless drivers weaving in and out of lanes. It can also become an issue for riders when there are intoxicated drivers on the road. Another way in which lane splitting can become dangerous is when drivers make lane changes without first checking for motorcyclists. It is also important to note that the faster the traffic is moving at the time of the accident, there is a greater risk for serious injury for motorcyclists.
A Skilled Attorney Can Help You Establish Fault
Lane splitting in California is legal, but determining fault can still be a challenge. When you or a family member was recently hurt in a traffic accident while lane splitting, speak to a skilled attorney who can help you establish liability.
The personal injury attorneys at the Knez Law Group, LLP recognize the complexity of motorcycle accident cases involving lane splitting. As an experienced law firm, the proficient litigators at the Knez Law Group, LLP can help you build a strong case that will help you recover compensation for your injuries. Consider scheduling a no-obligation consultation with the experienced legal team today by completing the online form here.
Matthew J. Knez graduated from the University of Redlands in California where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Creative Writing. He went on to pursue his Law Degree at the University of LaVerne, College of Law in Ontario, California. While pursuing his law degree he earned various awards, including CALI Award in Torts and he was on the Dean’s List. Mr. Knez was also a member of the Justice and Immigration Clinic where he worked with people seeking asylum into the United States from countries where they had experienced persecution or threat of persecution. Additionally, Mr. Knez was a member of Law Review where he was an Associate Editor and published a Law Review article on California family custody move-away cases.