Warm weather, scenic views, and open roads make Nevada one of the most popular places for motorcycle riders to have an unmatched experience on their bike. Among the various aspects of motorcycle safety, lane splitting is a common practice that can often lead to unsafe situations and legal concerns. In the state of Nevada, understanding the rules surrounding lane splitting and how they impact motorcycle crashes is critical for riders and drivers to ensure safety at all times. Come along as we delve into what lane splitting is, what its legal statutes are in Nevada, and how it plays a role in motorcycle accidents and general safety on the road.
What Is Lane Splitting?
We can define lane splitting as the practice of a motorcyclist riding between two lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic, typically in a manner where the rider travels between vehicles. While this may seem like an easy way to avoid traffic blockage, it also poses significant risks to everyone on the road. Lane splitting is often linked to a skyrocketed risk of accidents, personal injuries, and more, as riders must be ready at all times to navigate tight spaces and maintain a high level of alertness to avoid collisions with other vehicles.
The Legal Statute Of Lane Splitting In Nevada
In many states across the U.S., lane splitting remains a gray area in terms of legality. Nevada, however, has made it clear where it stands. Nevada Revised Statute (NRS) 486.351(2) prohibits motorcycles and mopeds from passing other vehicles within the same lane. This ban applies to all public roads, highways, and interstates in the state. Per the NRS, motorcyclists are required to ride within a single lane, and any attempts to navigate between lanes may be subject to fines or other penalties.
Though lane splitting is illegal in Nevada, there is a distinction when it comes to riding between lanes of traffic at an intersection. Nevada law permits motorcyclists to filter through traffic when stopped at red lights. This is an exception to the general rule, and while it may help motorcyclists avoid prolonged exposure to idle traffic, it should still be done with caution.
Motorcycle Crashes & The Role Of Lane Splitting
Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents involving lane splitting in Nevada are not uncommon. Lane splitting-derived accidents are unfortunately becoming more and more common here in Nevada. When riders engage in lane splitting, they face heightened dangers due to the proximity of other vehicles. Anticipating motorcyclists is not always easy for people driving standard cars due to different circumstances. However, this can be the cause of increased risks, and it can be difficult for drivers to anticipate motorcyclists passing in between lanes, which causes an even greater risk for those practicing lane splitting.
Many motorcycle accidents in Nevada occur in congested areas where lane splitting is more tempting. High-traffic regions like the Las Vegas metropolitan area are especially prone to such incidents. When motorcycles move through lanes at higher speeds than the surrounding vehicles, they risk colliding with other vehicles that may not see them coming. The risk does not stop when a collision is avoided though, and lane splitting can lead to situations of danger where riders can lose control or even be forced off the road.
Tips For Avoiding Motorcycle Accidents In Nevada
While lane splitting may seem useful to bypass traffic, motorcyclists need to prioritize safety above convenience. Here are some helpful tips to reduce the risk of motorcycle accidents, whether lane splitting or not:
- Obey Traffic Laws: Nevada law requires motorcyclists to follow all traffic laws, including not splitting lanes unless the exception for red lights applies. Knowing and respecting the law is crucial for your safety and any potential insurance claims in the event of accidents and injury.
- Wear Protective Gear: Protective riding gear, such as a helmet, gloves, and jackets, can significantly decrease the intensity of injuries in the event of a crash. Proper protective equipment should be a priority for every motorcyclist, regardless of whether they are lane-splitting.
- Stay Visible: Because motorcycles are built smaller and ultimately harder for other drives to spot, especially in peak traffic, it should be a top priority to wear clothing that is bright and reflective and use your headlights to increase visibility at all times.
- Anticipate Driver Behavior: Since not all drivers expect motorcycles to be lane-splitting, be alert for sudden lane changes or turns. For your safety, always assume that other drivers may not see you or may not be aware of your presence between lanes.
- Know Your Limits: Due to the close proximity of other vehicles, lane splitting significantly increases the risk of accidents. Even if lane splitting were legal, riders should carefully evaluate whether this is the best option for them depending on the traffic conditions.
When To Seek Legal Help
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, whether due to lane splitting or other causes, it is a top priority to seek advice from a legal expert who is trained to specialize in personal injury/motorcycle accidents and who can provide you with accurate and up-to-date information. Understanding Nevada-specific laws and how they may relate to your situation is very important to obtain the compensation you deserve. A serious and skilled motorcycle accident attorney in Las Vegas can help navigate the intricacies and difficulties that can arise from personal injury claims, especially when factors like lane splitting come into play.
At Benson and Bingham, you can contact us to benefit from years of experience helping motorcycle accident victims in Nevada with a team dedicated to finding the best possible outcomes for clients who have been injured in motorcycle accidents.
Article By:
O’Reilly Law Group
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