Motorcycle lane-splitting accidents can be particularly dangerous and legally complex. In Texas, lane-splitting is explicitly prohibited under the Texas Transportation Code, Section 545.060, which requires all drivers to stay within a single traffic lane. This law is in place to maintain order on the road and prevent unpredictable lane changes that can lead to serious accidents. Motorcyclists who engage in lane-splitting may face legal consequences, including citations and fines, and determining liability in an accident involving lane-splitting can be challenging. Furthermore, insurance companies may use a motorcyclist’s violation of this statute as grounds to deny or reduce a claim, making it essential to have strong legal representation when pursuing compensation.
Risks of Lane-Splitting Accidents
Understanding the risks associated with lane-splitting is crucial for both motorcyclists and other drivers on the road. These types of accidents often involve high-speed differentials, limited visibility, and unpredictable movements, increasing the likelihood of collisions. Because cars and trucks are not expecting a motorcycle to pass between lanes, they may change lanes or adjust their position without noticing an approaching motorcyclist, leading to dangerous crashes. Additionally, lane-splitting leaves little room for error—small miscalculations in speed or distance can result in severe or even fatal injuries.
Other common risk factors include:
- Heavy traffic congestion that forces motorcyclists to attempt lane-splitting to navigate around stalled vehicles
- Sudden stops by vehicles that leave no reaction time for a motorcyclist traveling between lanes
- Opening of car doors in stopped or slow-moving traffic
- Distracted driving by motorists who fail to check their mirrors or blind spots before changing lanes
Because Texas roads and highways often experience significant traffic congestion, some motorcyclists may be tempted to lane-split to save time. However, the legal risks and the increased potential for accidents make this a hazardous choice.
Determining Liability in a Lane-Splitting Accident
Since Texas law prohibits lane-splitting, liability in an accident involving this maneuver can be complex. If a motorcyclist is found to have engaged in lane-splitting at the time of the crash, they may bear a significant portion of the responsibility. However, other factors, such as distracted or negligent driving by another motorist, road hazards, or vehicle malfunctions, may also contribute to the accident. Understanding the nuances of these factors is essential when pursuing a claim.
Some key factors that may affect liability include:
- Whether the motorcyclist was speeding or weaving aggressively between lanes
- If the driver of another vehicle made a sudden, unsafe lane change without signaling
- Whether road conditions, such as potholes or debris, contributed to the crash
- If the motorcyclist was wearing proper protective gear, which may impact the severity of injuries
Texas follows a modified comparative fault system, meaning that a motorcyclist may still recover compensation as long as they are not more than 50% at fault. However, any awarded damages would be reduced by their percentage of fault in the accident. Having strong legal representation is vital in proving that another driver’s negligence played a substantial role in the collision.
Compensation for Motorcycle Lane-Splitting Accidents
Even if a motorcyclist was engaged in lane-splitting, they may still have legal options for seeking compensation if another driver was negligent. Compensation in these cases may cover:
- Medical expenses, including emergency care, surgeries, and rehabilitation
- Lost wages from missed work due to injuries
- Property damage, including motorcycle repairs or replacement
- Pain and suffering, which accounts for physical and emotional distress
- Long-term disability or diminished earning capacity if injuries are severe
Motorcycle accident injuries can be catastrophic, often involving head trauma, spinal injuries, broken bones, and road rash. The financial and emotional toll of these accidents can be overwhelming, making it essential to pursue fair compensation for all losses.
How The Payne Law Group Can Help
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle lane-splitting accident, attorney Scott Scherr at The Payne Law Group can provide legal guidance to navigate your claim. Our team understands the nuances of Texas traffic laws and how they impact motorcycle accident cases. We work diligently to protect the rights of injured motorcyclists and help them pursue the compensation they deserve.
Our legal team can assist with:
- Investigating the accident to determine all contributing factors
- Negotiating with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement
- Gathering evidence, including traffic camera footage and witness statements
- Representing you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached
Motorcycle accidents can lead to devastating injuries and complicated legal battles. Whether you were injured while lane-splitting or involved in a crash due to another driver’s negligence, you deserve a strong legal advocate on your side.
Contact Scott Scherr at The Payne Law Group today to discuss your legal options and get the support you need after a motorcycle lane-splitting accident. Let us fight for the compensation you deserve while you focus on your recovery.