Motorcycles have an edge over other vehicles. They’re small enough to fit between traffic lanes. Have you ever been passed by a motorcycle when you’re stuck in a non-moving traffic jam? Chances are the motorcycle is riding between the lanes.
This practice is known as lane-splitting and sometimes it’s even legal. Navigating the legalities of line-splitting in California isn’t always as easy as figuring out if it’s okay. The Golden State has motor vehicle codes all drivers must follow, even if you’re on a motorcycle. This probably means you have a few questions and we have the answers.
What is Lane-Splitting and Is It Legal in California?
Whether it’s called lane-splitting, filtering, or white lining, it’s referring to the same thing. When a motorcyclist is riding between rows of stopped or moving vehicles it’s known as lane-splitting.
Essentially, it happens when the motorcycle is hugging the dividing line between two traffic lanes. Is it legal in California? The answer is yes. The state vehicle code 21658.1 allows motorcyclists to split lanes on highways, roads, and divided, and non-divided streets.
However, California Motor Vehicle Code 23103 also has something to say about lane-splitting. The practice is only legal if it can be done safely. If riding between lanes is placing others at risk, the practice is probably illegal. Since the code leaves this to the discretion of the California Highway Patrol, knowing when it’s safe can be a little tricky.
Are Lane-Sharing and Lane-Splitting the Same?
The two terms may sound pretty similar but they’re definitely not the same. Lane-sharing is when two motorcycles ride side-by-side in the same lane. Yep, this is perfectly legal in California and most other states. However, passenger vehicles can’t legally share a lane.
Not only won’t two vehicles fit in the same lane but it’s also dangerous. As we explained earlier, lane-splitting is when a motorcycle rides between two lanes of traffic.
Does California Have a Speed Limit for Lane-Splitting?
Like all other states, California has posted speed limits that all motorists are required to follow. Yep, you can get a speeding ticket for going too fast between traffic lanes. Does this mean you should stick with the posted speed limit while lane-splitting? The answer is probably a resounding no. Don’t forget that lane-splitting is essentially only legal when it’s done safely. This means even going the speed limit may be a bad idea.
The California Highway Patrol recommends keeping your speed around 10 miles faster than the surrounding traffic. Sure, rider safety also plays a role. Trying to control a motorcycle at a crawl isn’t exactly a piece of cake. Chances are, your feet are spending a lot of time on the ground helping to balance your bike.
The best advice is to stick with a speed that’s safe for you and other motorists. This may mean riding down the dividing line at 30 mph or reducing your speed to around 10 mph. Just pay attention to your surroundings and base your speed on that.
Can Vehicle Drivers Block a Motorcyclist From Lane-Splitting?
Just like lane-splitting is only legal when it’s safe, motor vehicle drivers are prohibited from stopping the practice. Drivers can’t angle their vehicles over the dividing line, it’s illegal and can result in a traffic citation.
Drivers also can’t swing open their car doors to prevent a motorcycle from passing. If an accident occurs, the driver is probably liable for all resulting damages. California makes it illegal to intentionally impede a motorcycle.
What are the State Highway Patrol’s Guidelines for Lane-Splitting?
Okay, just because the Golden State says it’s legal for motorcycles to ride between traffic lanes doesn’t mean there aren’t some guidelines. As we noted earlier, the state highway patrol is responsible for setting down any guidelines.
The updated best practices for lane-splitting are pretty self-explanatory. So, whether you’re driving a car or riding a motorcycle you shouldn’t have too many additional questions. Here’s a look at some of the Golden State’s key guidelines:
- Lane-splitting is only legal when it’s safe for motorcyclists and motorists.
- The motorcycle must always be visible, including the rider. This means staying out of blind spots and wearing reflective rider gear.
- Try to limit lane splitting to lanes 1 and 2. This guidance is for safety reasons.
- Motorcycle riders must ensure the environment is safe for lane-splitting. This includes checking lane width, surrounding vehicle sizes, the weather, road conditions, and the amount of light.
- The motorcycle rider should be competent and experienced. If this is your first or second time riding a motorcycle, hold off on lane-splitting until you get some experience with the heavy bike.
California’s highway patrol goes on to require all motorcycle riders to follow traffic laws, including speed limits. The guidance also recommends motorcyclists always be aware of the risks associated with lane-splitting. Accidents can happen, especially when traffic is at a dead stop. Motorists often open their car doors and this can easily lead to an accident.
Are You Liable If an Accident Occurs While Lane-Splitting?
The answer to this question depends on the circumstances surrounding the accident. Simply engaging in lane-splitting doesn’t automatically mean you’re liable if an accident occurs. If a motor vehicle driver flings open their door and you crash, the driver is usually responsible for covering your damages.
However, if you’re speeding and lose control of your motorcycle hitting another vehicle, you’re probably the liable party.
California is also a modified comparative negligence state and this can impact liability. More than one driver can be liable for causing the same accident and it’s not uncommon for it to apply in lane-splitting injury claims.
Since California only allows lane-splitting when it’s safe for everyone, you may be partially liable if the authorities believe conditions are hazardous.
Recovering Compensation in a Lane-Splitting Accident
Simply because something’s legal doesn’t necessarily mean proving an accident claim is going to be a breeze. Comparative negligence can complicate things and impact your ability to recover compensation.
Working with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney can help ensure you can recover compensation even if you’re lane-splitting is a contributing cause.
