Love them or hate them, motorcycles are a constant presence on the highways in Georgia and all over the United States. While most motorcyclists follow the laws and are very cautious while riding, some motorcyclists throw caution to the wind and weave in and out of traffic, which endangers themselves as well as other drivers. Further adding to the frustration, motorcycle laws tend to be different in every state, so it can be confusing to drivers and motorcyclists alike.
One law that tends to differ widely throughout the country is motorcycle lane splitting. This is the practice of riding a bicycle or motorcycle between cars and lanes of traffic when it is slow-moving or stopped if it’s going in the same direction. This is also referred to as lane sharing, white lining, filtering, or stripe-riding.
GEORGIA LAWS ON MOTORCYCLE LANE SPLITTING
Like many other states in the country, Georgia has banned the practice of motorcycle lane splitting. Many motorcyclists believe that lane splitting improves safety and reduces traffic congestion, but lawmakers have decided that it is not a safe practice in the state of Georgia and have made it illegal for motorcyclists to do so. The subject has become a contentious one with motorcyclists and lawmakers, with passionate arguments on each side.
However, if you are a motorcyclist, it’s crucial that you follow all traffic laws whether or not you agree with them—including motorcycle lane splitting. These laws are designed to keep you and other motorists on the road safe at all times.
Lawmakers have determined that motorcycle lane splitting is dangerous because when traffic is clogged, and a motorcyclist wants to get through easier by lane splitting if traffic gets going again a car may not see you weaving in and out and hit you. What’s more is that if a wreck occurs because of motorcycle lane splitting, which is illegal in the state of Georgia, any injuries that you incur because of the crash would be determined your fault. This could mean thousands of dollars out of pocket that you’re spending on medical bills or missed days at work.
In addition to not lane splitting in Georgia, it is also crucial to wear your helmet while operating your motorcycle (and ensuring that any passengers do as well). Helmet laws in addition to motorcycle lane-splitting laws were designed to keep you safe if you are in an accident.
Been involved in an accident with a motorcyclist who was doing the illegal practice of motorcycle lane splitting? If this accident was a direct result of a motorcyclist who was intentionally breaking the law, you may be entitled to compensation for any injuries or lost wages as a result of the accident. Call the Fry | Goehring at (404) 948-3571 to get more information about pursuing a personal injury lawsuit.
