Lane splitting typically occurs when a motorcyclist drives down the middle of two rows of motor vehicles traveling in the same direction. Lane splitting is not the same as passing a motor vehicle in a separate lane and is illegal in Colorado.
Lane splitting is not the same as riding side by side with another motorcyclist in the same lane. Colorado permits motorcyclists to ride side by side or “co-ride.”
Lane Splitting is Illegal in Colorado
Colorado bans lane splitting at all times, even when traffic is at a standstill. Colorado lawmakers have introduced bills to legalize lane splitting, but none have passed due to safety concerns.
The Dangers of Lane Splitting in Colorado
There are numerous dangers associated with lane splitting in Colorado. Amongst the most common are:
- The unpredictability of motor vehicle drivers;
- The likelihood of merge or sideswipe accidents;
- The potential of a “dooring” accident. A dooring accident happens when a motor vehicle driver opens their door into an oncoming motorcyclist; and
- The likelihood of lane drifting by motor vehicle drivers.
Additional factors, such as the reduced space between vehicles and the speed of motorcycles while lane splitting, only increase the hazards of lane splitting.
An Alternative to Lane Splitting in Colorado
Motorcyclists can ride on a designated shoulder when traffic is completely stopped. When traffic resumes moving, motorcyclists must move back into the traffic flow.
Penalties for Lane Splitting in Colorado
Lane splitting is illegal in Colorado. Therefore, motorcyclists who lane split in Colorado are subject to traffic tickets and fines from $15 to $100.
Motorcyclists may also pay increased insurance rates or face license suspension from accumulated points against their motorcyclist license. There are civil penalties for causing an accident while lane splitting in Colorado.
A motorcyclist who causes an accident while lane splitting may be liable for any injuries and property damage that result.
Lane Splitting Accident Injuries in Colorado
If you were injured due to a motorcycle accident caused by lane splitting, you may be eligible to recover compensation for your medical bills, property damage, and more. Even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you may still qualify for monetary damages in Colorado.
Colorado follows the comparative negligence theory. Comparative negligence allows injury victims to recover damages for accident-related losses so long as they are no more than 50% at fault for an accident.
If you are unsure about liability for your accident or want to know if you are eligible for accident-related compensation, contact an experienced Denver personal injury attorney.
Contact an Experienced Denver Personal Injury Attorney
Learn more about lane splitting and how it impacts personal injury claims by contacting the attorneys at Dulin McQuinn Young. We are a Denver personal injury law firm dedicated to fighting for people who cannot fight for themselves.
Dulin McQuinn Young wants your wrongdoer to be held accountable for their actions while ensuring you receive the maximum compensation possible for your injuries. At Dulin McQuinn Young, we represent individuals, not claims.
Call our Denver office today to schedule your complimentary consultation with a skilled personal injury attorney in Denver.