Lane-Splitting Accidents Attorney in Los Angeles, California

Lane splitting—when a motorcyclist weaves between lanes of traffic—may look effortless on the surface, but is a contentious issue when it comes to road safety. California is one of the only states where lane splitting is legally permitted under specific conditions.

However, when accidents happen during lane splitting, liability can get complicated quickly. If you or a loved one has been involved in a lane-splitting accident, you need legal guidance to protect your rights and pursue compensation.

At Antaramian Law, APC, we handle your concerns with care and professionalism. Founded by attorney Andrew Antaramian, a seasoned personal injury attorney, the firm is dedicated to advocating for accident victims and their families. 

Antaramian Law, APC serves clients across Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange County, Ventura County, and Kern Counties. Call today to see how Attorney Antaramian can assist with your case. 

What Is Lane Splitting, and Why Does It Lead to Accidents?

Lane splitting refers to the act of a motorcycle traveling between two lanes of stationary or slow-moving vehicles. While it’s legal in California under certain conditions, improper execution or unexpected actions by other drivers can contribute to potentially disastrous situations.  

Some of the reasons lane splitting can lead to accidents include: 

• Reduced visibility: Drivers don’t always expect or see motorcyclists squeezing through tight spaces, leading to accidental collisions. 

• Narrow passageways: Even skilled riders face a significant risk when maneuvering within restricted lanes, especially if vehicles unexpectedly change position or open doors. 

• Traffic frustration: Many drivers become annoyed by lane splitting, particularly in high-traffic areas. This frustration can escalate into road rage, which poses a danger to everyone involved. 

• Speed differentials: Lane splitting is significantly more dangerous at higher speeds, as motorcyclists have less time to react to sudden changes in traffic. 

When these accidents result in injuries, determining who is at fault can become a legal challenge. Was the motorcyclist driving recklessly? Was the vehicle driver inattentive?

Whether accidents involve motorcyclists, vehicle drivers, or pedestrians, Antaramian Law, APC provides representation grounded in understanding and determination.  

Common Injuries from Lane Splitting Accidents

Because motorcycles lack the physical protection of cars, collisions involving lane splitting often result in severe—even catastrophic—injuries. Some of the most frequent injuries include: 

• Fractures and broken bones: Hands, arms, legs, and ribs are commonly injured during impact. 

• Road rash: Sliding along pavement can lead to painful abrasions that require extensive treatment. 

• Head injuries: These can range from mild concussions to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), even when helmets are worn. 

• Neck and back injuries: Spinal cord damage or herniated discs are prevalent due to the sheer force of a vehicle collision. 

• Internal injuries and organ damage: The blunt force of impact can injure vital organs, requiring emergency medical care.  

These injuries can have lasting, life-altering effects, often impairing a person’s ability to work, pursue hobbies, or carry out everyday tasks. Unfortunately, major insurance companies often downplay or dispute the severity of these injuries, which must be countered with strong legal representation. 

What sets Antaramian Law, APC apart is Attorney Antaramian's in-depth knowledge of how insurance companies operate. He uses the knowledge he gained during his eight years as a defense attorney for major insurance companies to fight against them downplaying the severity of injuries.  

Lane Splitting Laws in California

California is the only state where lane splitting is legal. However, the law requires motorcyclists engaging in this practice to do so safely and responsibly.  

The California Vehicle Code states that motorcyclists who split lanes must avoid excessive speed and refrain from actions that might compromise their safety or that of others on the road.  

Key points about lane-splitting laws in California include: 

• Lane splitting is lawful under AB 51, which allows motorcyclists to drive between lanes of vehicles in the same direction. 

• The California Highway Patrol (CHP) offers guidelines for safe lane splitting, which include avoiding speeds more than 10 miles per hour faster than adjacent traffic and splitting only in slower traffic conditions. 

• Drivers of passenger vehicles must avoid purposefully blocking motorcyclists who are legally lane-splitting. Intentional interference can result in penalties for the driver who obstructs. 

The law's vague definition of "safe and responsible" lane splitting leaves significant room for interpretation, often making fault in accidents a highly contentious issue. 

Victims may need to defend themselves against accusations of negligence or liability, even when they were acting in compliance with the law. A knowledgeable personal injury attorney can investigate, compile evidence, and build a solid case on your behalf.