Lane splitting is riding a motorcycle between lanes of slowed or stopped traffic moving in the same direction.
Currently, lane splitting is legal only in California. It is illegal for Texas motorcycle riders to split lanes in Texas, even if other motor vehicle traffic is stopped.
Lane Splitting Statutes in Texas
Texas law states that an operator of a vehicle driving on a roadway divided into two or more clearly marked lanes for traffic shall drive as practical within a single lane and may not move from the lane unless that movement can be made safely.
Texas legislature proposed a lane-splitting bill in 2016. The bill did not pass its committee, so a vote in the general assembly never occurred. According to the Houston Chronicle, since then, a few motorcycle advocates have urged lawmakers to make lane splitting legal. There are others who argue that it would increase accidents.
Pros and Cons of Lane Splitting
Supporters of lane splitting believe that:
- Allowing motorcyclists to legally share or split lanes with cars and trucks reduces congestion.
- Lane splitting could reduce rear-end collisions from distracted drivers in stop-and-go traffic.
Opponents of lane splitting argue that:
- More motorcycle riders will suffer injuries when other drivers change lanes suddenly.
- Lane splitting could cause accidents by motorists who are startled by motorcycles driving past them.
It Is Illegal To Lane Split in Texas
As stated above, lane splitting is currently illegal in Texas. Motorcycle riders must follow the same rules of the road as all other motor vehicles. Drivers of any vehicle, including motorcycles, in Texas, must use a separate lane to pass. If a motorcycle operator was splitting lanes when an accident occurred, they might be liable for their own injuries and the other party’s injuries.
Even though motorcycle operators have the same rights to the road, drivers often fail to yield to motorcycle operators the same way they must yield to all other motor vehicle operators. If a negligent driver caused your car accident, you could be entitled to recovery for your injuries.
Texas Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Protect Your Rights
Many Texans enjoy riding their motorcycles throughout our beautiful state. However, motorcycles do not offer much protection in a collision. If you were injured in a motorcycle accident caused by another motorist, you could be entitled to recover for damages. This recovery can include medical bills, lost wages, damage to your motorcycle, and more.
Texas has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits. A motorcycle accident lawyer will protect your rights and pursue recovery if you qualify.
Please Contact Our Firm for More Information
If you would like more information or have a question about a motorcycle accident injury, please call 713-850-8600 to discuss your case with a member of the D. Miller & Associates, PLLC team.
