Motorcycle lane splitting is a topic that often sparks debate and confusion.
Some argue that motorcyclists who lane split are putting themselves at risk, while others believe that lane splitting can help motorcyclists avoid certain types of accidents. So, what happens when a lane-splitting motorcyclist is involved in a crash? Who bears responsibility in these situations?
At DiBella Law Office, our experienced Boston motorcycle accident lawyer team is here to help you understand the complexities surrounding lane splitting and other issues that impact Massachusetts motorcyclists. Our team not only has extensive knowledge of Massachusetts motorcycle laws, but many of our attorneys are riders themselves, familiar with the unique challenges of navigating local roads while dealing with inattentive or reckless drivers.
Lane Splitting: Illegal in Massachusetts
Lane splitting, sometimes called “white lining” or “stripe riding,” happens when a motorcyclist rides between two lanes of vehicles moving in the same direction. This practice is common during heavy traffic or at red lights when motorcyclists might try to move to the front of the line.
However, under Massachusetts law (MGL ch. 89 § 4A), lane splitting is illegal. The law requires all vehicles, including motorcycles, to stay within their designated lanes unless it’s safe to change lanes. Furthermore, motorcyclists are not allowed to pass other vehicles within the same lane except for another motorcycle.
It’s important to note that lane splitting differs from lane sharing, which is legal in Massachusetts. Lane sharing allows two motorcycles to ride side by side in the same lane. While some states like California permit lane splitting, Massachusetts has not followed suit.
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Lane-Splitting Accidents and Liability in Massachusetts
Many motorcycle accidents occur due to the negligence of other drivers who fail to respect motorcyclists’ rights on the road. Some drivers may harbor negative stereotypes about motorcyclists, leading them to drive recklessly around bikers or intentionally crowd them out.
If a motorcyclist is involved in an accident while lane splitting, liability may not rest entirely on the rider. Massachusetts follows a comparative fault system, meaning a motorcyclist may still recover damages even if partially at fault, as long as they are less than 51% responsible for the accident.
If a driver’s negligence, such as texting while driving, speeding, or road rage, contributed to the crash, the driver could be held liable for the motorcyclist’s injuries. Gathering evidence such as witness statements and police reports can be critical in determining liability.
Is Lane Splitting Safe?
The debate over the safety of lane splitting continues. A 2015 study from the University of California, Berkeley (The study was conducted by the Safe Transportation Research and Education Center (SafeTREC) at UC Berkeley, and it focused on the safety of lane splitting in California under certain traffic conditions.), found that lane splitting could be safe if performed under specific conditions, such as when traffic is moving at 50 mph or slower and the motorcyclist travels no more than 15 mph faster than surrounding traffic. This research helped support California’s decision to legalize lane splitting.
Proponents of lane splitting argue that it can reduce rear-end collisions, which account for about 25% of all motorcycle accidents. By allowing motorcyclists to move ahead of traffic, they can avoid being struck from behind by larger vehicles.
Opponents, however, claim that lane splitting exposes motorcyclists to additional risks, including sideswipe accidents or collisions with drivers who fail to see them when changing lanes. Another concern is the possibility of “dooring” accidents, where a driver or passenger opens a door in the path of a motorcyclist, leading to severe injuries such as brain trauma or spinal damage.
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Contact DiBella Law Office for Motorcycle Accident Claims
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, whether due to lane splitting or another issue, the attorneys at DiBella Law Office are here to help. We can assess the details of your case, gather evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today!
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