In Las Vegas, and all of Nevada, lane-splitting is prohibited. This involves motorcyclists riding between lanes. Riders are not allowed to move between lanes in traffic that is congested, or even if it moves slowly.
Lane Splitting vs. Las Vegas
Lane splitting is not the same as lane sharing. Two motorcyclists traveling side by side in the same lane is called lane sharing. It is not to be confused with lane-splitting. This is a legal way for two cyclists to travel together and maximize the road space.
Who is responsible for motorcycle accidents caused by lane splitting?
In Las Vegas this maneuver is illegal, so motorcyclists may be partially or fully liable for an accident involving lane-splitting.
It is important to consider the events that led up to the accident. For example, if the motorcyclist was forced to avoid a road hazard, then they could only be partially responsible. If there is no immediate danger that forces the motorcyclists to lane-split, then they will likely be held responsible for the majority, if not the entire, of the crash.
Other factors that may affect
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Is there evidence that the accident was caused by lane splitting?
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The motorcyclist’s riding style — whether he was careful, not speeding up or weaving between lanes.
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The experience of the rider.
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Traffic conditions — whether traffic was moving slowly or not at the time of a crash.
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If the actions of the driver were reckless, for example, a sudden lane change, without signaling it, or swerving in between two lanes while under the influence.
This information and others will help determine who is at fault, and therefore, responsible for damages. Nevada courts use a modified relative negligence standard. The law stipulates that the injured party may recover compensation if they are not more than 50% at fault for the accident. If the party found to be at least 51% responsible for an accident, compensation is not available.
Why Lane Splitting Is Dangerous
There are several reasons why lane splitting is dangerous:
Limited Viability
A motorcyclist may hide themselves from other drivers when they split lanes. This is especially true for larger vehicles. The reduced visibility can increase the risk of a collision as drivers may not anticipate that a motorcycle is passing between lanes.
Sudden Movements
Lane splitting involves frequent changes in position and speed. Some drivers may not be expecting or prepared for a motorbike to move between lanes.
Space Constrictions
There is little room for errors when lane splitting. A crash can occur if the motorcyclist makes an unexpected move or if vehicles around him do.
Variations in Skill and Experience
Inexperienced riders might find it difficult to safely navigate through traffic when lane splitting. California is currently the only state to have passed legislation allowing lane splitting.
Are You Involved In A Lane-Splitting Car Accident In Las Vegas
Contact a Las Vegas Motorcycle Accident Attorney if you or someone close to you has been injured by a lane-splitting accident. You can work together to determine the liability of your accident and recover compensation. You may qualify for a free consultation to assess your case.
The post Lane Splitting in Las Vegas: Is it Legal? first appeared on Harris & Harris Injury Lawyers.