Is Lane Splitting Legal in Arizona?

Lane splitting is defined by a motorcyclist who drives between two lanes of traffic that are driving in the same direction. Motorcyclists will do this for many reasons but typically they bypass vehicles in slow traffic backups. They might also do this if they are in a rush and need to get to their next stop quickly. Rushing around and lane splitting can lead to serious injuries because most cars are not prepared to have a motorcycle slide in between lanes and cars in front of them. A study found that ⅔ of all motorcycle accidents occur due to rider error. This means an accident could occur if a motorcyclist decides to lane split. Even more serious, these accidents could be fatal. The Insurance Information Institute found that motorcycle fatalities increased 5.1% from 2015 to 2016. If you own a motorcycle, you must know all of the road laws regarding them to ensure the safety of others as well as your own. 

Arizona Lane Splitting

Lane splitting is currently illegal in the state of Arizona. No motorcycle can pass in the same lane or in between multiple lanes that are already occupied by a vehicle right next to them. This law is to protect motorcyclists and other passengers from getting into bad accidents. Other vehicles on the road are alert and prepared to deal with normal lane passing laws not motorcycles swerving in between lanes just because they are smaller and can fit in tiny spaces. If a motorcyclist decides to disobey the law, they could face expensive tickets for breaking the law. If a motorcyclist causes an accident while they were lane splitting, they will be liable for any damages they cause. If they break the law and drive in between lanes they are participating in driver negligence. 

The Future Of Lane Splitting

There is a possibility that the Senate could pass a bill on the subject of lane splitting. As for now, all motorcyclists need to obey the current law and pass all vehicles normal as the law states. In 2010, Arizona lawmakers introduced a bill to legalize lane splitting throughout the state but it did not get passed. The conclusion is that it could be reintroduced in the future, but there needs to be more studies conducted to show that lane splitting is safe. As for now, there is not enough evidence to prove it is safe for all motorcyclists and other vehicles on the road. There is no indication on whether Arizona will pass an additional law for lane splitting at this time. 

Finding An Arizona Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Injuries from a motorcycle accident can be very dangerous and life-threatening. Consult with a motorcycle accident attorney if you have sustained injuries in a motorcycle accident in Phoenix. Don’t go through this overwhelming time alone. The Phoenix attorneys at ELG will help you with all of your legal needs. Our attorneys will evaluate your entire accident, compile all of the evidence they need to file a claim, and answer all of your questions along the way. We will offer our best legal advice so you can recover the maximum amount of compensation for the injuries you sustained. Call us today to find out how our motorcycle accident attorneys can help you. Contact us at either Phoenix or Mesa Arizona law offices at (623) 321-0566.

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