Legal Help For Motorcycle Lane-Splitting Accidents

Lane splitting - when a motorcyclist rides between two lanes of stopped or slow-moving traffic - is common on California highways, especially during rush hour on freeways like I-5, I-405, or 134. While lane splitting is legal in California, accidents during this maneuver can raise complicated questions about fault and liability.

Our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys are here to protect your rights and help you recover the compensation you deserve after a lane-splitting accident.

Understanding California Lane-Splitting Laws

California is one of the few states where lane splitting is legal. However, motorcyclists are only permitted to lane split if they do so safely and prudently. Excessive speeding, weaving dangerously between vehicles, or lane splitting in unsafe conditions can jeopardize a rider's claim in the event of an accident.

Determining Liability In Lane-Splitting Accidents

Assigning fault in a lane-splitting accident can be challenging. While drivers often blame motorcyclists for these incidents, the actual cause of the accident may involve other factors, including the motorist's actions.

Liability may depend on:

• Whether the motorcyclist was riding responsibly, without excessive speed or reckless behavior.
• Whether the driver of another vehicle was distracted, failed to signal, or made an unsafe lane change.
• The findings of a police report and statements from witnesses or insurance adjusters.

If the motorcyclist is unfairly deemed at fault, it can significantly impact their ability to recover damages. That's why having an experienced motorcycle accident attorney advocating for your claim is crucial.

Factors That Strengthen Your Lane-Splitting Accident Claim

Specific details can help establish that the motorcyclist was not at fault, including:

• Safe Riding Behavior: You were lane-splitting carefully without speeding or weaving erratically.
• Negligence by the Other Driver: The driver was engaged in dangerous behavior, such as:
  • Texting or using their phone.
  • Changing lanes without signaling.
  • Drifting into another lane or failing to maintain their lane.
  • Driving distracted or recklessly.
  • Exceeding the speed limit or otherwise breaking traffic laws.

Our attorneys will gather evidence such as traffic camera footage, witness statements, and police reports to support your claim and hold the responsible parties accountable.

Why You Need A Lane-Splitting Accident Attorney?

Lane-splitting accidents often involve disputes with insurance companies and conflicting reports about faults. Unfortunately, insurance adjusters may use recorded statements or evidence against motorcyclists to deny or reduce payouts. Our attorneys will:

• Thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your accident.
• Handle all communications and negotiations with insurance companies.
• Fight to maximize your compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.
• Represent your best interests in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached.