Motorcycle riders often get the blame for accidents even if they are not at fault. One common concern relates to lane splitting, a commonly used practice in some areas. While it may seem like it may negate any right to compensation if an accident occurs when a driver is operating in this manner, there is more to know about it. Is lane splitting legal in Mississippi?
The answer is that it is not legal, but there is also no law that says it is illegal. Here is what you need to know about lane splitting laws in Mississippi from a Jackson motorcycle accident lawyer.
What Is Lane Splitting?
Lane splitting is a method of driving in which the motorcycle rider passes traffic between lanes. For example, if two vehicles are driving next to each other, but there is significant room between them, a motorcycle rider may go between the two cars to pass them. This is sometimes referred to as white lining because the rider is driving on the line separating the two lanes.
It is true that lane splitting can be dangerous. It often involves maneuvering between vehicles that could, at any given time, move and strike the rider. Some motorcycle riders engage in this practice while vehicles are stopped at a light, allowing them to move ahead of the cars when the light turns green.
Determining the Legality of Lane Splitting
In Mississippi, law enforcement has the right to use their judgment to determine if the motorcycle rider’s actions contributed to the incident. While lane splitting is not outright illegal, it could be considered operating recklessly if it does, in fact, lead to an accident.
What Happens When an Accident Occurs?
In situations where a rider is engaging in lane splitting and an accident occurs at that moment, it can be difficult to know who is to blame. For example, if a rider is weaving around traffic, a vehicle that is changing lanes may strike the rider, not seeing them in the center of the two lanes.
Each situation is vastly different, and it is up to the police, insurance companies, and witnesses to determine who might be at fault for such accidents.
- Did the rider’s maneuvering cause the accident?
- Did the other driver fail to look before switching lanes or otherwise striking the motorcycle rider?
- Were there other circumstances that created the risk to other parties involved in the accident, such as poor road conditions or a lack of proper lighting?
By examining all of these factors, police will likely determine if the motorcycle rider was at fault. Yet, if you are that rider and you have injuries and losses because the other driver was in fact at fault, it is possible to prove that the other party is responsible. In doing so, you will be able to file a claim for your losses.
If You Are Unsure, Seek Out a Free Consultation with a Personal Injury Attorney
These cases can be very challenging to prove as a motorcycle accident victim. Hiring an attorney who can investigate and gather evidence to support your claims could prove to be vitally important in these matters. Take the time to set up a free consultation with a motorcycle accident lawyer who can answer all of your questions about your case.