What is Lane Splitting? Is it Legal in Colorado?
Lane splitting is the act of a motorcycle rider moving between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic.
Colorado tried to pass a bill in 2016 enabling the traffic move in the state, but the measure failed in an 8-5 vote, despite overwhelming support from the biking community.
Currently, California is one of the only states in the country that allows the practice to occur legally.
Scientific studies have proven lane splitting is a much safer alternative to motorcyclists sitting in traffic.
As a smaller vehicle, a motorcycle offers less protection and is less visible to passenger vehicle drivers who may not be paying attention to the road around them.
Colorado continues to penalize lane splitting explicitly; however, it does allow two motorcycles to ride abreast in one lane.
Who is Liable in an Accident?
If a motorcycle rider gets into an accident with another vehicle in Colorado while lane splitting, who would be held liable for the crash?
Lane splitting, while safer than staying still in traffic, is still risky. The proximity to cars combined with the lack of maneuverability in a small space makes it almost impossible to avoid a collision if a car driver isn’t paying attention when changing lanes.
In an accident, if a motorcycle is lane splitting, there is a good chance fault for the accident will be attributed to the motorcycle rider. However, if the biker can show the other driver contributed to the crash, the rider could be partially compensated for his or her injuries and property damage.
If you or a loved one were involved in a motorcycle accident caused by the negligence of another driver, let us help. Our skilled Denver motorcycle accident lawyers are dedicated to helping the victims of collisions seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Let us see what we can do for you.
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