Some of the severest traffic-related injuries on California roads arise out of motorcycle accidents. Motorcyclists do not have any of the protections afforded by a traditional car and are often at the mercy of inattentive drivers.
Many Los Angeles motorcycle crashes occur during lane splitting, which happens when a motorcyclist shares a lane with a passenger vehicle. Lane splitting, also known as white-lining, typically occurs when cars are stopped at a traffic light and a motorcyclist rides between vehicles to the front of the line.
Motorists often express annoyance at lane splitting, but this practice is actually legal for experienced motorcyclists.
Lane Splitting Guidelines for Motorcyclists
- Avoid lane splitting above 30mph
- Travel at a speed no more than 10mph faster than other cars
- It is often safer to split lanes between the first and second lanes of traffic.
- Consider road conditions before lane splitting such as lane width and the weather
- Watch out for erratic lane movements from other cars
Intentionally blocking a motorcyclist from lane splitting is illegal under the California Vehicle Code. It is important for motorists to remain safe at all times and share the road with pedestrians and vehicles of all types.
5 Tips for Bikers to Split Lanes Safely
With no enforceable lane-splitting guidelines from the California Highway Patrol, this practice can be extremely dangerous. However, safety experts agree that motorcyclists can take certain safety precautions to help everyone stay safe on the road.
- Keep your bike tuned up. Your brakes and tires should be in good working order before riding anywhere, particularly in between lanes of traffic
- Get comfortable with lane buttons. While lane splitting, you may have to ride over the raised buttons in between lanes. They can rattle your bike, but they shouldn’t, under most circumstances, tip you over. Practice riding over them when there are no cars around to get comfortable.
- Consider practicing without the engine. You’ve surely seen cyclists dart between lanes of traffic, changing directions on a dime and leaving cars in their dust. It may annoy some motorists, but it can be very helpful in developing comfort with lane splitting and identifying patterns in traffic, so long as it is done safely and legally.
- Use the right gear. While lane splitting may at times be safer than trying to occupy an entire lane on a motorcycle, there is still a substantial risk. When riding between two lanes of moving traffic, you’ll be much better off if you’re wearing a full-face helmet, boots with ankle protection and protective clothing.
- Stay focused. More than almost any other type of driving, lane splitting requires complete concentration and an enhanced awareness of what’s happening around you. If you’re tired, distracted or otherwise unable to concentrate, consider taking another route or staying off the bike altogether.