Responsible drivers are always scanning the road so they aren’t caught off-guard by someone who makes a sudden lane change without looking or who steps out into traffic against a light or where there’s no crosswalk. Here in California, drivers also need to be on the lookout for lane-splitting motorcyclists.
Currently, California is the most lane-splitting-friendly state in the country. The California Vehicle Code (CVC) defines it as “driving a motorcycle…between rows of stopped or moving vehicles in the same lane….” Lane splitting can help prevent motorcyclists from getting stuck in traffic jams. It can even help minimize traffic congestion for others. However, a lane-splitting biker can startle a driver or even not be visible to them until it’s too late.
Conditions Aren’t Always Safe for Lane Splitting
Just because lane splitting itself isn’t prohibited in California, that doesn’t mean it’s safe or allowed under all circumstances. A motorcyclist who’s lane splitting and speeding is especially dangerous to themselves, in addition to others. It’s particularly dangerous to lane split at a high speed through the stop-and-go (or just plain stopped) traffic that motorists often encounter on the state’s freeways.
Motorcyclists who lane split have a responsibility to make sure they’re seen by drivers before they cut in front of them and not to make sudden reckless moves that could cause a collision (involving them or not). They need to take care to avoid drivers’ blind spots. This is particularly important around larger vehicles like trucks and RVs.
If you collided with a motorcyclist who was recklessly lane splitting or with another vehicle as you swerved to avoid a motorcyclist who appeared out of nowhere, you may have little or no fault for the crash. It’s crucial not to accept the blame (or financial responsibility) for others’ reckless or negligent behavior on the roads when you’re the one who should be holding a liable party accountable. By seeking legal guidance as soon as possible, you can help to protect your right to justice and compensation.
about
Scott M. Blumen
Scott M. Blumen, Attorney at Law, APC offers personalized, results-focused legal help for injury and workers’ compensation cases in San Diego.
Frequently Asked Questions
Getting started is easy. If you’ve been injured in a workplace accident, car accident, construction accident, slip and fall, or another incident caused by someone else’s negligence, contact Scott Blumen Law today. Call (619) 439-1837 to discuss your situation and receive an honest assessment of your legal options.
Since 1989, Scott Blumen has helped thousands of injured individuals throughout San Diego. He is known for providing honest legal advice, straightforward communication, and experienced representation in both workers’ compensation and personal injury law. As a Certified Legal Specialist in Workers’ Compensation Law, he offers knowledge that many firms cannot provide.
Many injury cases are resolved through settlement negotiations without going to trial. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, Scott Blumen is prepared to advocate for your interests throughout the legal process and pursue the best possible outcome.
Depending on the circumstances, compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, future medical care, rehabilitation costs, pain and suffering, property damage, and other related losses. Every case is unique, and the available compensation depends on the facts of your claim.
California law places deadlines on filing both personal injury and workers’ compensation claims. Missing these deadlines could affect your ability to recover compensation. Contact Scott Blumen as soon as possible after an accident to discuss the time limits that apply to your case.
Yes, in certain situations. While workers’ compensation covers most work-related injuries, you may also have a separate personal injury claim if a negligent third party contributed to your accident, such as a contractor, equipment manufacturer, or another driver. Scott Blumen has experience handling cases involving both types of claims.
Although you are not legally required to hire an attorney, having experienced legal representation can be extremely beneficial if your claim is delayed, denied, your benefits are disputed, or your injury is serious. Scott Blumen is a Certified Legal Specialist in California Workers’ Compensation Law and has over 30 years of experience helping injured workers.
Your health should always come first. Seek medical attention as soon as possible, report the accident if appropriate, gather photos and witness information when possible, and avoid discussing fault with insurance companies before speaking with an attorney. Prompt legal guidance can help protect your rights.
Scott Blumen represents clients in a variety of injury-related matters, including:
- Workers’ compensation claims
- Personal injury cases
- Car accidents
- Construction accidents
- Slip and fall injuries
- Dog bites and animal attacks
- Motorcycle, bicycle, and pedestrian accidents
- Brain injuries
- Wrongful death cases
- Product liability claims
Most personal injury and workers’ compensation cases are handled on a contingency fee basis. This means you generally do not pay attorney fees unless compensation is recovered on your behalf. During your consultation, Scott Blumen can explain how fees apply to your specific case.
The value of a case depends on many factors, including the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost income, future treatment needs, and how the injury has affected your daily life. Scott Blumen provides straightforward, honest assessments rather than unrealistic promises so you know what to realistically expect.
If you were injured because of someone else’s negligence or suffered an injury while performing your job, you may have a valid legal claim. Every situation is different, so the best way to determine your options is through a consultation. Call Scott Blumen Law at (619) 439-1837 to discuss your case and receive an honest evaluation.
