What Is Lane Splitting? Can Motorcycles Split Lanes?

Currently, a California state statute defines lane splitting in terms of speed or movement between rows or overlapping vehicles of the same lane including on separate or unequally populated roads/highways.

Can motorcycles split lanes? Yes, it is safe to say that lane splitting is legal.

California is the first state to officially recognize and legalize lane splitting. And then implementing the same to California highway patrol.

Is lane splitting safe?

The majority of motorists said they shifted their traffic lanes a little because of two things: In terms of velocity, lane-splitting helps motorcyclists navigate heavy traffic quickly. Narrower lanes can help reduce roadblocks as well.

The motorcyclist believes this will help reduce their chances of getting into a motorcycle accident if they split their lane ensuring motorcycle safety.

The picture is easy to follow. When traffic flow stops, distracted motorists sometimes incur rear end accidents in stationary traffic. Even if a motorcycle accident occurs at a low speed a motorcycling passenger may suffer serious injuries if it does not stop in time.

The Distinction Between Lane Sharing, Lane Filtering, And Lane Splitting

Lane splitting occurs whenever a motorcyclist crosses a vehicle in a space between two-lane highways. This is also called white coating by many experienced motorcyclists. In general motorcycle riders usually use a split lane to reduce traffic.

Several studies have found that a lane split might provide more safety than riding primarily on traffic lanes in high volumes. There are two other traffic maneuvering techniques used by motorbike drivers which are identical. Lane Splitter Filter and Lane Sharing.

The term “lane filter” is applied when motorcycles navigate through slow traffic and stationary vehicles like the one at the stoplight. Whereas, lane sharing includes putting two riders on an overlap lane or alternate lane in staggered form.

Safety Points To Ponder

Every time lane splitting is discussed the safety points are mentioned. These include: being reasonable, accountable, and tolerant. Keep your speed down a bit – or you’ll be liable in the event of a collision.

Make yourself accountable! You must always ensure you have an appropriate safety decision that impacts the people in front of you.

Respect the others in your street! Give someone more room before the lane split. You can split legally, but other motorists are not required to do so legally.

Laws for Motorcycle Riders

Motorcycle Lane Use in Nevada

As automobile drivers, motorcycle users are allowed the right to use the highway. In some situations, you can also ride on a parallel path with a different motorcyclist. Neither person is allowed to use the other side of an intersection.

It is not illegal for drivers to enter the road without stopping at any moment. Transportation officials do not allow shared roads, but they are permitted. No lane sharing is allowed in vehicles other than cars.

Nevada Motorcycle Helmet Laws

Nevada helmet regulations are in force. The motorcycles must have properly fitted helmets for riding. It has to meet USDOT regulations. When looking to buy helmets, be sure to get DOT approval as there are helmets available without requiring approval.

If the motorcycle is based on an electric motor of two or more horsepower at maximum speeds under 20mph, the helmet’s regulations do not apply. Motorcycle drivers have to wear sunglasses and visors.

Duty Of Care When Operating A Motorcycle

Each vehicle operating in Nevada is responsible for its care and safety. Duty of care implies that the driver must operate his or her vehicle according to safety rules. The obligations apply to every vehicle, and not only motorcycles.

The responsibility for a car crash is assumed by Nevada and the other parties. A person may fault one party and another. If an injured person is liable for an accident, they have a claim against him for compensation.

Motorcycles Split Lane Rule In America

In America, cyclists are becoming the “little black of the rice” in dozens of thousands of vehicles that pass through every day. Many motorists see these vehicles as enemies for defeat despite ignoring the traffic laws affecting the roads and other traffic.

We decided to review some of the key points of the subject. Since Sept. 2017, lane splitting has only been legalized in the state of California. But various countries are not officially declared illegal by law.

Nevada Motorcycle Riding Rules

The bicycle needs to have enough seats to allow occupants to travel on it. Passengers have to be in front of the driver. The foot is placed under its footrest. Nevada law 468.33 requires every motorcyclist to obey traffic rules.

Motorcyclists can gain free access to the road. It says that motorcyclists can carry out any legal duty they would have as long as they follow traffic rules.

Nevada Motorcycle Registration Requirements

You must register a vehicle with the NV Motor Vehicle Administration. The exception to registration requirements is for mopeds with a maximum weight of less than 50ccs at speeds of at least 30km/h.

All other motorcycles must always be registered with Nevada. Nevada law 486.041 specifies a motorcyclist as having at least one seat and two saddles.

Nevada Motorcycle License

You must be licensed in Nevada to operate motorcycles legally. It’s a motorcycling endorsement. If you want the license, then you must pass an examination of your knowledge or skills or take and pass a motorcycle training course.

You must be 18 unless there is parental permission otherwise it will be considered your minor’s willful misconduct.

Nevada Motorcycle Insurance Requirements

If you drive in Nevada, motorcycle insurance should meet Nevada state requirements. Nevada has no fault. Those who cause a car crash seek to recover from their injuries. If you’re hurt by negligence by a driver, it’s possible to get compensation either directly or through insurance.

There Are Always Exceptions To The Rules

Despite this law being aimed at being very straightforward concerning lane splitting, there have been varying issues arising that indicate the lane splitting collision may have occurred.

When one car, or a motorcycle swerving, is struck by another vehicle in a traffic situation that leads to a motorcycle accident. If the drivers of the other car were negligent when text messaging was not available to them and the motorcyclist did not see the vehicle.

Lane Splitting Legality by State

Tell me about the legality of the split lane? Our research focuses on the legal features of Lane Splitting in different states. This is the list of places.

Is lane splitting legal in Oregon?

Bill 2414 will be considered soon. A motorcycle could travel between two automobiles on roads where traffic can travel at speeds exceeding 50 mph and at speeds of 10 or lower. Alternatively, it is reasonable for more strict regulation to follow once the legalization of Lane Split occurs.

Is lane splitting legal in Washington?

Current Senate Bill 5254live is being drafted in an attempt to preserve Lane Separation. This legislation was delayed.

Is lane splitting legal in Maryland?

Maryland has already passed House Bill 917, but it is still unclear whether it should be legalized.

Is lane splitting legal in Connecticut?

Massachusetts has Senate Bill 629 on deck but, as with Maryland, the pace of action is very low.

Frequently Asked Questions

What states let motorcycles split lanes?

California is indeed the sole state in the world where motorcycles are legally able to split the roads in the lane.

Why does California allow motorcycles to split lanes?

Motorcycle drivers said their lanes were split for the following two primary reasons: The traffic split enables bikes to navigate the traffic much faster than vehicles do, and the bikers claim it also helps the traffic of every commute.

Is lane splitting safer for bikers?

The rear-ended rider was at a much lower risk of collision with the vehicle when they had not shifted their vehicle in any direction. Lane separation can be dangerous if the motorcycle crashes on the road and causes serious injury.

The Final Word

Lane splitting is risky and might cause motorcycle accidents. On the road when a rider sees a stopped car and decides to change lanes without thoroughly looking at cars in the other lanes, it can cause accidents.

During a traffic jam or slow-moving traffic bike riders usually split lanes to move past the traffic congestion. This type of motorcycle lane splitting is hazardous and can cause personal injury.

Therefore, there are many lane-splitting laws. Lane-splitting riders should be aware of these laws and should move side by side with the traffic flow.

In case of any motorcycle accident, the accident victim should hire a personal injury lawyer to get compensation from the insurance company or the culprit regarding the loss caused by the accident. For more information, please refer here to learn about bikes and lane splitting!