If you’ve ever been stuck in traffic on I-20, I-65, or the heart of Huntsville, you might’ve noticed motorcyclists weaving between cars. The maneuver is called lane splitting, and while some riders see it as a quicker or safer way to navigate congestion, it comes with serious risks.

Riders who attempt it increase their chances of a serious motorcycle crash. At highway speeds, even a small miscalculation can be deadly.

Learn what Alabama law says about lane splitting, the risks it poses, and safer ways to navigate traffic.

Is Motorcycle Lane Splitting Legal in Alabama?

According to Section 32-5A-242 of the Alabama Code, all motorcycles are entitled to the full use of a lane, like any other vehicle. The law also permits up to two motorcycles to ride side by side within a single lane.

However, subsection (c) clearly states that riding between traffic lanes or rows of vehicles is prohibited. Alabama law encourages motorcyclists to stay within their designated lane, promoting safety and consistency on the road.

What Are the Risks of Lane Splitting?

Although it may seem like an easy solution to avoid traffic jams, lane splitting is risky. Motorcyclists who choose to ride between the lanes expose themselves to the following dangers:

• Sideswipe Accidents: One of the most frequent risks of lane splitting is other vehicles drifting too closely or not leaving enough space for a motorcycle. Common injuries riders risk include leg and hip fractures.
• Dooring: Most drivers in large cities and urban areas like Huntsville do not expect motorcycles to ride between lanes. Lane splitting exposes riders to the risk of car doors opening suddenly, which can cause riders to crash or be thrown off the bike.
• Sudden Lane Change: Because motorcycles are smaller and narrower than other vehicles, they can easily disappear into a driver’s blind spot. If that driver changes lanes without seeing the rider, it can lead to a collision before the motorcyclist can react.
• Mirror Strikes: If the distance between the lane splitting motorcycle and other vehicles is too small, riders can hit and break their side mirrors. At high speeds, this can cause the rider to lose balance and fall off the bike.

Legal Implications of Motorcycle Lane Splitting in Alabama

Attempting to ride between traffic lanes isn’t just dangerous; it’s against the law and can harm your legal rights in an accident. You risk the following legal consequences:

• Fines and Jail Time: Violating the statute prohibiting lane splitting is a misdemeanor. First-time offenses are punishable by a $100 fine, while repeat offenses within a year of the first can go up to $500 and three months of imprisonment.
• License Points: Lane splitting is an offense that can result in getting traffic violation points in Alabama. Law enforcement may consider lane splitting to be an improper lane change (two points) or reckless driving (six points).
• Insurance Consequences: Even if no accident occurs, getting cited for lane splitting by law enforcement can still lead to higher insurance premiums.
• Liability in Personal Injury Cases: If you were injured by another road user in an accident, evidence showing you were lane splitting could prevent you from being compensated. This is because Alabama uses the pure contributory negligence system; if you are found even 1% at fault in an accident, you cannot recover damages.

Safer Riding Practices To Avoid Lane Splitting

While riding between cars in congested traffic may be tempting, you should avoid it and prioritize safer, more responsible riding practices. Follow these tips to reduce the risk of being involved in an Alabama motorcycle accident:

• Position Yourself for Visibility: Avoid riding dead-center behind cars; instead, follow the ALEA motorcycle manual’s best practices for passing and place your motorcycle in the leftmost third of your lane. Doing so will increase your line of sight, help you become more visible, and prepare you for passing safely or escaping a dangerous situation.
• Avoid Tailgating: Make full use of your lane and keep a safe distance between your bike and vehicles ahead of you. If another vehicle is tailgating you, don’t lane split or speed up; instead, check your mirrors, safely change lanes, and encourage them to pass you.
• Plan Your Route: The best way to avoid being stuck in traffic is to be ready to leave the highway and pick a different route. Keep your eyes on the road and all potential exits, shoulders, and other safe means of avoiding dangerous traffic conditions.

Get Legal Representation From an Experienced Alabama Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

If you were involved in an accident due to another driver’s reckless or negligent actions, contact The Vance Law Firm Injury Lawyers as soon as possible.

Our skilled lawyers have experience representing Alabama motorcycle accident victims. We can help you obtain evidence for your case, demonstrate that you followed the law and safe riding practices, and protect your right to compensation from the at-fault driver.

Schedule a free consultation with us today. We are proud to stand with all motorcycle enthusiasts in Alabama.