Lane splitting is not legal in Ohio. Motorcycle riders cannot ride between lanes of traffic or pass vehicles in the same lane. The law in Ohio requires all motorcyclists to follow the same traffic rules as cars and trucks.
Breaking these rules could result in a traffic violation or other legal consequences. If you have questions about motorcycle laws, a Toledo motorcycle accident lawyer from our firm can help explain your rights and how Ohio’s lane-splitting laws may affect you.
What Is Lane Splitting?
Lane splitting occurs when a motorcycle rider moves between two lanes of cars, usually in stopped or moving traffic. Instead of staying in a single lane like other vehicles, the rider travels between the cars.
Some riders think lane splitting is helpful because it can save time and avoid getting stuck in traffic jams. However, not everyone agrees the maneuver is safe.
Lane splitting is not the same as two other riding terms:
- Lane filtering: This is when a motorcycle moves between stopped or slow-moving cars at intersections.
- Lane sharing: This happens when two motorcycles ride side by side in the same lane.
Understanding the differences can help riders follow the rules of the road.
For a free legal consultation, call (419) 930-3030
What Does Ohio Law Say About Lane Splitting?
Ohio’s traffic laws are clear: lane splitting is not allowed. Motorcyclists must follow the same rules as cars and trucks. This means:
- Motorcycles must stay in their own lane.
- Riders cannot pass cars or trucks in the same lane.
Breaking these rules can result in penalties such as:
- Fines.
- Points added to your driver’s license.
- Increased insurance rates.
Riders must understand and follow these laws to avoid problems while traveling on the roads and highways in Ohio.
Personal Injury Lawyer Near Me (419) 930-3030
Why Lane Splitting Is Not Legal in Ohio
Lane splitting is not legal in Ohio because it is considered unsafe. Here’s why:
- Increased risk of accidents: Cars and trucks may not expect motorcycles to pass between lanes. This can lead to accidents, especially if a vehicle suddenly changes lanes.
- Visibility issues: Motorcycles are smaller than cars, so drivers of larger vehicles may not see them coming, making it harder to avoid a collision.
Ohio laws aim to keep everyone on the road as safe as possible. Motorcycle riders can lower their chances of getting into an accident by staying in their own lane.
Why Moving a Motorcycle Between Two Traffic Lanes Is Dangerous
Lane splitting comes with many risks. Some of the most common include:
- Collisions with changing lanes: Drivers may not see a motorcycle when they switch lanes, leading to crashes.
- Reduced reaction time: Cars and motorcycles both have less time to react to sudden movements in heavy traffic.
Lane splitting can lead to serious injuries, including head trauma, spinal cord damage, broken bones, and internal organ damage. Because of these risks, riders in Ohio should aim to avoid lane splitting altogether.
What Legal Consequences Can Motorcycle Riders Face for Lane Splitting in Ohio?
If a motorcyclist is caught lane splitting in Ohio, they could face legal consequences such as:
- Traffic violations: Riders may be fined and have points added to their license.
- Liability in an accident: If lane splitting causes an accident, the motorcyclist could be held responsible, even if another driver contributed to the crash.
Unfortunately, legal consequences can also affect insurance claims. For example, an insurance company might deny a claim or increase the rider’s premiums if lane splitting was a factor. Understanding the risks can help motorcyclists make safer choices.
How We Can Help With an Injury Case Involving Lane Splitting
An accident related to lane splitting can raise tough legal questions. Regardless of whether you were the rider or another driver, our Toledo personal injury lawyers will find answers and pursue the best outcome for your case.
We can assist you by:
Evaluating Your Case
We will review the details of your accident to determine who may be at fault and how Ohio’s laws apply. Even though lane splitting is not legal in Ohio, every case is unique, and there may be factors that could strengthen your claim.
Gathering Evidence
Our team will investigate the accident thoroughly. This may include:
- Reviewing police reports.
- Examining traffic camera footage.
- Interviewing witnesses.
- Working with accident reconstruction experts who can recreate the scene and explain what happened.
Evidence is key to building a strong case, whether you are pursuing compensation or defending against claims.
Handling the Insurance Company for You
Insurance companies often try to deny or reduce payouts, especially in cases involving lane splitting. We will handle all communication with insurance adjusters and fight to make sure you receive fair compensation for:
- Medical expenses.
- Lost income (or loss of future earning ability).
- Pain and suffering.
- Property damage.
- Other crash-related losses.
Representing You in Court
If we cannot recover a fair settlement for you, the next step may be to represent you in court. Our experience with motorcycle accident cases means we will present your side of the story.
Explaining Your Legal Rights
We will help you understand your legal rights and options. For example:
- If you suffered an injury because of another driver’s negligence, you may still be able to recover compensation, even if the crash involved lane splitting.
- If you are being blamed for the accident, we will build a defense showing how you were not at fault for the crash and protect your interests.
Keep in mind that your case has a statute of limitations deadline. You generally have two years from the date of the accident to sue for damages, per Ohio Revised Code § 2305.10. The same deadline applies to wrongful death lawsuits. The two-year period starts on the deceased’s death date.
If your loved one suffered injuries in a fatal accident involving lane splitting, our compassionate Toledo wrongful death lawyers will advise if you can recover losses, such as your family member’s medical expenses and funeral and burial costs.
Providing Personalized Support for Your Case
We know that recovering from an accident is stressful. We will handle the entire legal process with care and professionalism so you can focus on healing.
If you’ve been in an accident involving lane splitting, contact us today. We’re here to answer your questions and provide the help you need.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
Call for Help if Your Motorcycle Crash Involved Lane Splitting
Lane splitting is not legal in Ohio, and all motorcycle riders on Ohio’s roads must understand the state’s traffic laws. Following these rules can help keep you safe and avoid unnecessary legal trouble.
However, if you’ve been in an accident or have questions about your rights as a motorcyclist, you can come to us. The Groth & Associates team has over 100 years of combined legal experience, which we use to hold liable parties accountable for our clients’ compensation.
Whether you’re dealing with an accident or want clarification about Ohio’s motorcycle laws, we can help. Don’t try to handle these challenges alone. Contact us today for a free consultation. We will review your case, answer your questions, and provide the support you deserve.
Call or text (419) 930-3030 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form