According to motorcycle riders across the state, the California lane splitting law is helping other motorists pay attention to lanes. The law allows motorcycle lane splitting below 50 mph, which means riders can weave in and out of lanes to get ahead of traffic.
For other motorists, the motorcycle lane splitting law requires a heightened approach to awareness on the roads of California. Largely thanks to increased inter-agency efforts to reduce accidents and road deaths, motorcycle accidents have fallen by 28 percent overall.
Winter Weather Impact
The winter weather has its part to play in the reduction of deaths and accidents. Motorcycle riders are more likely to leave their bikes at home when the weather is wet and hazardous. However, these conditions also make cycling conditions dangerous, so motorcycle riders and other motorists need to continue to exercise caution on the roads.
Motorcycle lane splitting is a contentious practice; with California being the only state which has legalized it as of 2018. Every motorist has their part to play in ensuring motorcycle lane splitting does not result in accidents or deaths. It is important for motorists to remember motorcycle riders are harder to see and more like to suffer serious injuries in a collision.
Law Enforcement Increase
An increased presence of police patrols on California roads is designed to reduce the number of traffic violations or crimes which are linked to motorcycle accidents and deaths. CHP Officer Art Montiel has stressed police stops are not intended to harass motorcycle riders but, rather, help to promote sensible and safe practices.
These patrols are not solely focused on motorcycle riders, as all motorists are responsible for keeping the roads of California safe. Officers are tasked with identifying potentially dangerous driving which could result in a collision. Motorcycle lane splitting is safe for riders so long as all motorists pay due care and attention on the roads.
Fewer Accidents & Fatalities
When comparing accidents which resulted in fatalities from 2016, there was a decrease of nearly 30 percent in 2017. 586 motorcycle riders died as a result of accidents in 2016 – a number that dropped by 180 in the following year. The only states that experienced a higher drop were District of Columbia, Delaware, Wyoming, and Mississippi.
The focus now is on increased police patrols and motorist education. It is important that all motorists are aware of laws, such as motorcycle lane splitting. Increased awareness leads to motorists acting more responsibly when motorcycle riders are attempting to pass.
Maison Law
Martin Gasparian started Maison Law after gaining extensive experience with the oldest law firm in Los Angeles. If you have been involved in a motorcycle lane splitting accident, it is vital you seek representation from a law firm that understands the complexities of personal injury claims.
Mr. Gasparian will fight for fair compensation resulting from injuries and damages that have occurred in a motorcycle lane splitting accident. We can provide transportation if your injuries are preventing you from attending a consultation to discuss the merits of your case.
