Lane sharing or lane splitting is a common practice among motorcyclists. It occurs when they ride between stopped vehicles or between slower-moving cars. While it is legal in most areas, that does not mean that anyone riding a motorcycle can weave in and out of stopped traffic whenever they wish. There are many regulations on lane splitting, and there are best practices to consider as well. Below are several important things for motorcyclists to know about lane splitting.
Watch the Speed
It’s important for motorcyclists to remember never to ride substantially faster than the cars around them. This means that they can go between vehicles to get through a traffic jam, but they should do so slowly and only speed up when it is safe to do so.
Don’t Split Lanes If Traffic Is Moving Freely
Lane splitting should only be done in situations where traffic is going very slowly or it is stopped completely. If cars are moving at or more than 30 miles per hour, then the level of danger rises exponentially. The faster a motorcyclist rides, the more serious a crash would be. If someone is in this kind of crash, they should contact motorcycle accident attorneys in Tucson, AZ as soon as possible.
Stick to the Left Lane Whenever Possible
If possible, riders should not lane split when they are close to exits or on-ramps, and they should try to split the lane as far to the left as possible. This is the safest strategy because drivers are more used to it on this side of the road. If a rider sees another cyclist doing the same thing near them, they should wait until that person has moved forward before attempting the maneuver themselves.
Be Ready to React Quickly
This tip applies to everyone, but it’s especially important for motorcyclists. One should always be aware of the vehicles around them, and they should be ready to take quick action if one of those cars suddenly changes lanes. Be ready to respond if a driver is not paying attention, and don’t spend more time in a car’s blind spot than you have to.
If someone is injured while riding a motorcycle or as the result of a motorcyclist’s recklessness or negligence, they should speak to a motorcycle accident attorney in Tucson, AZ immediately. Call today or visit us website to set up an appointment.
