Is Lane Splitting Illegal on a Motorcycle?
Lane splitting refers to motorcyclists who share lanes with other motorists when they’re traveling in the same direction, and in a few states, it is legal. In the State of Pennsylvania, however, it is not. An important factor when it comes to staying safe on your bike is knowing the rules of the road and abiding by them, and if you’ve been wondering about the legality of lane splitting in Pennsylvania, you’ve come to the right place. If another driver’s negligence leaves you injured in a motorcycle accident, you need the skilled legal guidance of an experienced Bucks County motorcycle accident attorney backing you up.
Lane Splitting
Lane splitting involves motorcyclists who simply split a lane with moving traffic when they are traveling in the same direction. Another form of lane splitting is called lane filtering, which involves a moving motorcyclist who weaves through stopped traffic that is headed in the same direction. Both approaches are considered especially advantageous in urban areas that experience a lot of traffic congestion. When motorcyclists are allowed to make their way through traffic in either manner, it can help minimize congestion and help keep traffic moving forward.
There is, however, considerable debate on the matter of safety when it comes to lane splitting – with strong opinions coming down on both sides. But if you ride in Bucks County – or elsewhere in Pennsylvania – it’s important to know that neither lane splitting, nor lane filtering is legal.
Motorcycle Accidents
While lane splitting isn’t legal in the State of Pennsylvania, some motorcyclists choose to engage in the practice. Doing so safely requires hypervigilance, and if you suffered a severe injury in a motorcycle accident while lane splitting, you will likely be found at least partially responsible for the legal damages you suffer. Even if this is true, however, you can seek compensation for the percentage of fault that is assigned to the other driver – as long as you aren’t more than 50 percent responsible.
For Example
If you were lane splitting on your bike when an impaired driver sped past and sideswiped you, you would likely be assigned a percentage of fault, but it’s likely to be considerably lower than the percentage the drunk driver is assigned. At this point, you can seek compensation for your losses in a motorcycle accident claim.
Your Compensation
Consider the following:
- Let’s say – by way of example – that your total losses add up to $100,000.
- If you are assigned 20 percent of fault in the matter and the drunk driver is assigned 80 percent, this $100,000 total will be reduced by 20 percent.
- This leaves you with $80,000 in compensation.
An Experienced Bucks County Motorcycle Accident Attorney Is on Your Side
The formidable motorcycle accident attorneys at HGSK Injury Lawyers – proudly serving Bucks County, Pennsylvania – have earned an impressive reputation for obtaining fair settlements that reflect our clients’ rights and support their fullest recoveries. We are on your side and here to help, so please don’t hesitate to contact us online or call us at 267-350-6600 and schedule your free consultation today.