Is Lane Splitting Legal for Motorcyclists in Kentucky?

All operators of motor vehicles on Kentucky roads must, beyond anything else, do their part in keeping every other person safe.

When that does not happen, serious risks to a person’s life can occur, especially with motorcycle accidents. What about lane splitting? Is lane splitting legal for motorcycle riders in Kentucky?

Lane splitting is neither legal nor illegal in Kentucky. That is because the law does not define it specifically. However, that does not mean motorcyclists are exempt from responsibility in these cases.

A Lexington motorcycle accident lawyer can answer your questions about lane splitting.

Lane Splitting Explained

Lane splitting occurs when a motorcycle rider operates their bike between two lanes of traffic that are driving in the same direction. For example, if there are two lanes of traffic heading north, a motorcycle rider cannot ride between the two cars next to each other to get around them.

While Kentucky law does not ban lane splitting, it is generally considered unsafe and not allowed. In most states, it is not legal.

In states where it is legal, it is typically only allowable when there is a separate lane for motorcycle riders. That is also very rare. In those cases where it is permissible, you can expect there to be a much lower speed limit during the act.

The reason lane splitting is not typically legal is that it is considered unsafe, especially when vehicles are traveling at high speeds, such as on the highway.

In these situations, it is far too easy for someone to lose control and cause a serious, life-threatening injury.

When Motorcyclist Operations Put Others in Danger

Motorcycle riders must abide by the state’s laws like every other person on the roadway. If a person engages in lane splitting, realizing that it is a very high-risk situation and they put others at risk as a result, you can expect to be issued a ticket.

Any operation involving a motorcycle that poses a danger to others could result in a violation.

Lane Splitting Is Not Lane Sharing

DO not confuse lane splitting – the act of driving between two vehicles traveling in the same direction – with lane sharing. Kentucky motorcycle laws allow for two riders to drive next to each other – in tandem – within the same lane of traffic.

In this situation, the two riders are riding next to each other within one set of traffic lanes.

Lane sharing is generally safe in most situations, provided all parties are aware of what is happening. Lane sharing can be dangerous if it occurs simultaneously with speeding or other reckless behavior.

Lane Splitting and Serious Injuries

In serious accidents in which a motorcyclist is struck by a vehicle while engaging in lane splitting, it may impact their ability to recover damages. Lane splitting may not be illegal, but it can often be considered dangerous and reckless behavior.

As a result, this may be used to reduce the amount of compensation owed to you after an accident. However, that does not outright mean you cannot seek compensation from the other party if they were at fault.

Set Up a Free Consultation to Learn More

If you are unsure if lane splitting is legal for motorcyclists in Kentucky and how that affects your case, contact us to seek out a free consultation with a local Lexington personal injury attorney at Gary C. Johnson P.S.C.