Is Lane Splitting Legal In Marietta?
The beautiful weather in Marietta makes it possible to get just about anywhere on a motorcycle, at just about any time of year. Bikers who encounter congested streets and heavy traffic may try to ride the center line, between two lanes of traffic. This is a practice known as lane splitting. Some advocates argue that lane splitting saves on fuel, which is better for the environment. They also argue that it saves bikers time, and that the practice is completely safe.
As a motorcyclist, it is important to know what the laws say about lane splitting, and all other aspects of riding. If you violate them and an accident occurs, you could be found liable if you violate traffic law.
Lane Splitting is Illegal in Marietta
Also sometimes known as “white-lining,” lane splitting occurs when a biker travels between two lanes of traffic. Sometimes the lanes of traffic are traveling in the same direction while in other instances, traffic is going in opposite directions. Lane splitting essentially turns any center line into a motorcycle lane, and it is against the law in Marietta, and throughout the rest of Georgia.
Lane Splitting is Very Dangerous
When traveling between two lanes of traffic that are moving in the same direction, bikers may think it is safe to lane split. Unfortunately, other drivers may not see the biker before they change lanes or turn into the biker. Risks are present when lane splitting between two lanes of traffic traveling in the same direction. It becomes much more dangerous, though, when traveling between two lanes of traffic going in opposite directions. Oncoming drivers may not be able to avoid a biker as they approach them, or they may also turn into them, not expecting a vehicle to be there.
Comparative Fault in Marietta
The comparative fault law applies to any accident that involves two or more liable parties. Under this law, accident victims can still collect financial compensation for an accident if their share of fault was 49 percent or less. Any damages awarded are reduced by the accident victim’s same percentage of fault.
Due to the fact that lane splitting is illegal in Georgia, you will likely be assigned some degree of fault if an accident occurs. Under the negligence per se law, when someone is involved in a traffic accident while committing a traffic violation, they are presumed to be liable. An insurance company or civil court may also find you entirely liable for the accident, which could mean you are responsible for paying damages. For this reason, all bikers in Marietta should avoid lane splitting, and the consequences it can bring, at all times.
Our Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Marietta Can Help After a Crash
Lane splitting is illegal in Georgia, which is why so many bikers refrain from the practice. Still, drivers may try to argue you were lane splitting or otherwise acting negligently in an effort to shield themselves from paying full damages. At The Strickland Firm, our Marietta motorcycle accident lawyer will refute claims that you were at fault so you receive the full and fair settlement you are entitled to. Call us now at 1-844-GAJUSTICE or reach out to us online to request a free consultation.
Sources:
ga.elaws.us/law/section40-6-312
law.justia.com/codes/georgia/2020/title-40/chapter-6/article-13/part-2/section-40-6-315/
