Dangers of Motorcycle Lane Splitting
Motorcyclists have to adhere to the same traffic laws as regular cars, with only a few exceptions. Motorcyclists may be tempted to get ahead of traffic by motorcycle lane splitting but the practice is currently illegal in Washington State. While there are efforts to change the law and allow lane splitting throughout the state, there are concerns about its safety.
What is Motorcycle Lane Splitting?
Lane splitting happens when a single two-wheeled vehicle, like a motorcycle, travels between two lanes of traffic. In the United States, California is the only state where lane splitting is legal for motorcyclists. In Washington, there are discussions and petitions advocating for its legalization, arguing that it could ease traffic congestion. However, opposing voices highlight potential dangers and the risk of motorcycle accidents.
Current Motorcycle Laws in Washington State
Washington motorcycle law specifies that motorcycles have the right to use a full lane. Motorcyclists are not allowed to overtake and pass a vehicle in the same lane, and lane splitting between lanes of traffic is prohibited. However, riding side by side in the same lane is permitted, as outlined in RCW 46.61.608(4).
The Dangers of Lane Splitting for Motorcyclists
The primary concern regarding lane splitting by motorcyclists is the elevated risk it poses to them. According to data provided by WSDOT, there were 1,954 motorcycle accidents in Washington State in 2022. These accidents resulted in 124 fatalities and an additional 515 serious injuries. Given the existing dangers, there’s hesitation about introducing a law that could potentially increase these risks. Unexpected actions by drivers, such as opening car doors or changing lanes without noticing the motorcyclist, could result in serious accidents. Moreover, lane splitting might provoke road rage from some motorists, heightening the risk further.
Recovering Compensation after a Motorcycle Accident
Motorcyclists, like all motorists, must comply with traffic laws. Violating these laws may impact compensation if a motorcyclist files an injury claim after an accident. Washington operates as a comparative negligence state, allowing injured parties to recover damages even if they share some fault. However, damages may be proportionally reduced based on the degree of fault. For instance, if lane splitting contributed 40 percent to an accident, and a negligent driver changing lanes without proper observation was 60 percent at fault, the injured motorcyclist may recover only 60 percent of the damages. Understanding these legal nuances is crucial for those seeking compensation after a motorcycle accident.
Bellingham Motorcyclist Seriously Injured After Lane Splitting Incident
As reported by Whatcom-News.com, according to a press memo from the Washington State Patrol (WSP), a motorcyclist was riding his motorcycle southbound on I-5 in the area of the Sunset Drive interchange around 12:50 p.m. on December 6 when he attempted to “split the lanes” occupied by other vehicles. The motorcyclist struck two vehicles and was then ejected over the Jersey barrier and came to rest in the left northbound lane where he was struck by a third vehicle.
The cause of the crash is cited as the unsafe lane change. It is unknown whether drugs or alcohol were involved in the accident. The motorcyclist was wearing a helmet and all occupants of the other vehicles were wearing their seatbelts at the time of the crash. While the occupants of the other vehicle were not injured, the motorcyclist was transported to PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center and was later transported to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle due to the extent of his injuries.
Seek the help of a motorcycle accident lawyer
If you or a loved one was injured in a collision because of the negligence of another, contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal rights. Let an experienced motorcycle accident attorney fight for the full compensation that you deserve. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is five to ten times larger with the help of a lawyer. Call the personal injury lawyers at Tario & Associates, P.S. in Bellingham, WA today for a FREE consultation! We have been representing residents of Whatcom County, Skagit County, Island County and Snohomish County since 1979. You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you!
