Most California motorcyclists lane split, survey says
The majority of Californian motorcyclists engage in “lane splitting,” the practice of weaving between slower moving passenger vehicle traffic in two lanes to circumvent congestion, according to survey results released by the California Office of Traffic Safety The practice, though legal in the state of California, is controversial to some drivers who say it is unsafe and alarming for motorcycles to maneuver around cars in slow or stopped traffic. A small percentage of drivers surveyed admitted to trying to prevent motorcyclists from lane splitting by maneuvering their vehicles to block access to the lane. A little more than half of all drivers surveyed said they knew that lane splitting is allowed under California state traffic regulations, while nearly nine out of ten motorcycle operators said they practice lane splitting maneuvers. According to safety experts at the California Office of Traffic Safety, the dangers inherent in lane splitting can be reduced if motorcyclists keep their speed in check and remain aware of the traffic patterns and driver behaviors on the road around them. The most common unsafe lane slitting practice is violating the speed limit.
As a personal injury attorney Sacramento, I hope all motorists can be convinced to adopt safer practices when operating an automobile or motorcycle. If you or someone you care for has been injured in a traffic collision, please consider contacting a Sacramento auto accident lawyer.
