Avoid spending any more time than necessary in the blind spots of other vehicles. A helmet can help reduce some head injuries, especially common ones like concussions. The section of code prohibiting lane splitting in our state is found in Section 56-5-3640(d), which reads that motorcycles may not be operated more than two abreast in a single lane. Obey speed limits and maintain a safe traveling speed when going over gravel and slippery surfaces. Citations are still rare, but written warnings are common. Leaving too little room for motorcyclists on the road. However, four other states have some variation of the law that allows bikers to take similar action—. The following are brief descriptions of some laws regarding SC motorcyclists: In many cases, drivers are at fault for causing a motorcycle collision. Jerry, the #1 rated car insurance comparison super app, you'll have access to the best rates from over 50 top insurance companies in seconds. Is lane splitting legal in fl. One behavior in particular that can increase the risk of a motorcycle accident is lane splitting. Lane splitting is dangerous for a number of reasons. Broken bones, broken ribs.
In 2013, approximately 4, 400 motorcyclists were killed in accidents across the United States, while over 88, 000 motorcyclists were injured. Lane splitting occurs when motorcycle riders pass vehicles in the same lane occupied by another vehicle. Some grounds for motorcycle accident compensation are: - Turning in front of a motorcyclist. North Carolina Motorcycle Laws.
Left-turn accidents: One of the most dangerous situations for motorcyclists occurs when cars are making left-hand turns, as these accidents account for 42% of all accidents involving cars and motorcycles. It's quick, simple, and hassle-free. Don't apologize to the other motorist, even if you split the lane. On October 1, 2021, Montana became the 3rd state to legalize lane splitting with the passing of S. B. Injured in a Motorcycle Crash? Get Important Legal Help After a Charleston Motorcycle or Moped Accident. "Although lane splitting is allowed in just a few areas of the United States, notably California, it appears to be worthy of further study because it offers a means of reducing congestion in addition to possible safety benefits. In most states, lane splitting is illegal—although there are a few where it's allowed. Motorcycle Lane Splitting in South Carolina. If you are over the age of 21, you do not have to wear a helmet as an operator, or a passenger of a motorcycle. As a Charleston motorcycle accident lawyer, Trey possesses vast experience across all areas of the personal injury field.
Prevent sit bone saddle sores on long rides by using chamois cream. We'll start with a free consultation, then handle the legal claim process from start to finish. Lane splitting is one cause of accidents that applies solely to motorcycle riders. We offer free property damage assistance. Charleston Motorcycle & Moped Accident Lawyer. The state of South Carolina requires that a motorcycle be equipped with a muffler. Their priority is saving money, not your compensation. Category 5: Usually enforced by citation – These are states and cities where, for a variety of reasons usually related to local customs, outlooks and lack of practice, lane-filtering will usually result in a citation being issued to the rider. Motorcyclists have important rights. Is lane splitting legal in north carolina. Statewide, motorcycles make up three percent of registered vehicles in South Carolina, but motorcycle riders account for around 12% of traffic fatalities each year. Since the state only requires riders under 21 to wear a helmet, South Carolina judges refuse to impose a judicial penalty on crash victims by considering the failure to wear a helmet to be negligent or contributorily negligence. You can also video the accident scene if it is safe to do so, and you are physically able to do so. A great example is Virginia, which technically has no laws against lane-sharing but has been shown by a lot of online data to be very strong in enforcement against all sorts of lane-sharing.
Some estimates show that motorcyclists are 35 times more likely to die in a road accident—the likelihood increasing even more if the driver fails to follow traffic rules or fails to wear a helmet. Police officers on motorcycles can split lanes while on duty. Although a rider should feel reasonably safe lane-filtering in a category 3 zone, they should keep a sharp eye out for LEOs and refrain from lane-filtering in direct eyesight of one. FAQ | Motorcycle Laws | Bob Karney - Carolinas' Biker Lawyers. 51) in 2016 that allows the California Highway Patrol to establish guidelines for legal and responsible lane splitting. As such, you would benefit greatly by consulting with knowledgeable legal counsel.