Is Lane Splitting Legal in Georgia?

Most motorcyclists like to minimize the time they spend stuck sitting in traffic in Georgia. When traffic slows, and they are eager to avoid sitting still for a long time, the temptation for motorcyclists to pass other vehicles between the lanes on the road may increase. This action is known as lane splitting. You might be wondering, “Is lane splitting legal in Georgia?” Just like in most other states, lane splitting is illegal in Georgia.

Defining Lane Splitting

Lane splitting occurs when a motorcyclist passes between lanes of moving vehicles. Usually, the driver of the motorcycle crosses white traffic lane lines in order to pass any slower vehicles. Motorcycle drivers might lane split in slow-moving traffic, during congestion, and through intersections.

Lane splitting can be very dangerous in Georgia. Under state law, motorcyclists may only pass other vehicles when it is safely allowed and must only pass when using a passing lane like any other vehicle on the road. Only law enforcement officers may lane split in the course of performing their duties.

Dangers of Motorcycle Riding in Georgia

Many people safely ride motorcycles in Georgia every day; however, motorcyclists can face increased danger while on the roadways due to the following reasons:

• Motorcycles are often less visible than other vehicles.
• Vehicle drivers may be less cautious around motorcycles.
• Motorcyclists can be more vulnerable in some situations due to their small size compared to most other vehicles.
• Motorcyclists might avoid being slowed down by other vehicles and attempt lane splitting.
• Motorcyclists have less protection than drivers of cars.

Due to these dangers, motorcyclists can suffer catastrophic injuries in an accident. If you were involved in a motorcycle accident, a Georgia personal injury attorney can protect your rights.

Reasons To Hire a Zealous Attorney To Handle Your Georgia Motorcycle Accident Case

Navigating a complex motorcycle accident case without an experienced Georgia attorney can be very difficult. Your motorcycle accident lawyer can advocate for you while simultaneously gathering vital evidence relevant to your case, which could include:

• Traffic camera footage
• Witness testimony
• Weather and road condition reports
• Drivers’ cell phone records.

The average person might struggle to secure this evidence themself while also managing their injuries and the economic aftermath of their accident.

In Georgia, if you think another driver is responsible for your motorcycle accident, you have to prove liability before seeking any compensation for your injuries and damages. An attorney can be a valuable asset when assessing responsibility for your accident and seeking full compensation for any injuries you sustained, even if lane splitting is involved.

Your attorney can explore any driver misconduct that resulted in your accident. An accident involving a motorcycle accident may have occurred due to intoxicated driving, reckless driving, or other misconduct behind the wheel.

You may want an attorney to argue that driver negligence was part of your accident. Driver negligence could take the form of:

• Speed limit violations
• Distracted driving
• Traffic signal violations
• Breach of duty of care while driving

The Deadline to File a Motorcycle Accident Case

The deadline to file a case for a motorcycle accident is two years, with some exceptions, including accidents involving minors, people with mental illness, or fleeing drivers. If you find yourself involved in a motorcycle accident, get help from an attorney to figure out the facts and apply Georgia personal injury law.

FAQs

Q: What Are the Penalties for Lane Splitting in GA?

A: Lane splitting in Georgia is a traffic offense that can include administrative penalties, fines, and points assessed to your driver’s license. You could also have a difficult time recovering damages if involved in an accident while lane splitting. In Georgia, if convicted of lane splitting, you could be ordered to pay a fine and have three points added to your license.

Q: Is Lane Splitting the Same as Lane Filtering?

A: Lane splitting and lane filtering are similar, but not necessarily the same. Lane splitting refers to motorcycles moving between lanes of traffic that are constantly moving. Lane filtering occurs when a motorcyclist moves between lanes of traffic that are slowed or have come to a stop. Both lane splitting and filtering are illegal in Georgia, and motorcyclists convicted of these violations can face penalties.

Q: Can a Motorcyclist Be Held Liable if They Are Involved in an Accident While Lane Splitting in Georgia?

A: Yes, a motorcyclist can be held partially or fully liable if they’re involved in an accident while lane splitting due to the act being illegal. Their actions could be seen as contributing to the accident or even causing it, impacting potential claims for compensation and liability determinations. If you cause an accident by lane splitting, you may be found legally responsible for the other party’s injuries and damages.

Q: Why Is Lane Splitting Illegal in Georgia?

A: Lane splitting is illegal in Georgia because there are many dangerous and inherent risks involved in the act, including startling drivers of motor vehicles who might react poorly and swerve. Also, motorcyclists could misjudge their space to lane split and accidentally sideswipe another vehicle. Lane splitting can result in serious accidents and the risks of lane splitting greatly outweigh any potential benefits.

Q: What Happens After a Lane-Splitting Motorcycle Accident in Georgia?

A: If an accident involving a lane-splitting motorcycle occurs in Georgia, the motorcycle driver will likely hold some responsibility for the accident. If you’ve been involved in a lane-splitting motorcycle accident, call 911 and seek medical attention. If the police respond, report any injuries. An attorney who is familiar with complex personal injury and property damage cases can be a great resource to consult in these situations.

Find Your Georgia Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today

While it is possible to build a case on your own, you can likely increase your potential compensation with an attorney by your side. The attorneys at Trammell & White can provide compassionate legal counsel for motorcycle accident claims. Contact our office to consult with a lawyer who can help you address any unexpected challenges you encounter as your case unfolds.