Is Lane Splitting Legal in NY?

Lane splitting is a common maneuver used by motorcyclists everywhere, however, it is illegal in New York. Lane splitting is when a motorcyclist maneuvers their bike in between lanes to pass other vehicles. The statute in New York law that bans lane splitting states the following: “No person shall operate a motorcycle between lanes of traffic or between adjacent lines or rows of vehicles.”

Why Lane Splitting is Illegal in New York

New York isn’t the only place on the East Coast, or in the country, to outlaw lane splitting. As a matter of fact, lane splitting is illegal in every state, except California. It is an incredibly dangerous practice that can lead to serious accidents. Lane splitting is illegal in New York because of the following dangers:

• A driver changes lanes into a motorcycle who is lane splitting and operating in the vehicle’s blind spot
• Another driver does not see or does not expect to see a motorcyclist in the middle of a lane
• A driver changes lanes in front of a motorcyclist who is lane splitting, which can lead to a crash

Common Injuries Caused by Lane Splitting

Lane splitting is such a dangerous practice because of the additional risks it places on the motorcyclist. The most common injuries caused by lane splitting motorcycle accidents in NY include the following:

• Road rash
• Broken bones
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Amputation
• Death

Motorcycle Safety Tips

Motorcycle safety is critical for riders to enjoy the open road and avoid accidents and injuries whenever possible. Below are important tips for a safe motorcycle journey.

Wear protective gear – Always wear a DOT-approved helmet, protective eyewear, gloves, sturdy jacket, pants, and boots. This gear provides crucial protection in case of a fall or collision.

Perform pre-ride checks – Ensure your motorcycle is in good working condition. Check tire pressure, brakes, lights, and fluid levels before hitting the road.

Stay visible – Wear brightly colored or reflective clothing to enhance visibility, especially in low light conditions. Use your motorcycle’s lights, and consider adding reflective tape to increase visibility.

Obey traffic laws – Adhere to speed limits, follow traffic signals, and obey all traffic rules. Respect other road users to ensure a safe and harmonious travel experience.

Stay sober – Never operate a motorcycle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Impaired riding significantly increases the risk of accidents.

Maintain safe following distances – Keep a safe distance from vehicles ahead. Motorcycles have shorter stopping distances, so allow ample space to react to sudden stops.

Be mindful of road conditions – Watch for hazards like potholes, gravel, wet leaves, and uneven surfaces. These can be particularly treacherous for motorcycles.

Stay alert and focused – Avoid distractions and stay vigilant. Constantly scan the road for potential hazards, and be aware of your surroundings.

Call a New York Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today

If you or a loved one suffered an injury in a motorcycle accident, you deserve to be compensated for your losses if the crash was caused by someone else. Our team of motorcycle accident attorneys at The Barnes Firm will hold the responsible party accountable for your injuries. Call our office today at (800) 800-0000 or complete our contact form to schedule a free consultation today.

Richard Barnes – President and Managing Personal Injury Lawyer in Buffalo, NY

“As President of The Barnes Firm, I have dedicated my career to achieving justice in hundreds of cases for the victims of injuries caused through the fault of others. Additionally, I have been honored to have been elected by my peers to serve as president of the WNY Trial Lawyers Association.”

Years of Experience: 30+ years