5 Lane-Splitting Tips
Lane-splitting is beneficial to motorists in that it curbs congestion, lowers commute times, and, if done right, enhances the safety of motorcyclists. The problem is that most people don’t know how to execute lane-splitting, making the habit more of a danger than an advantage to motorcyclists and other road users. If you are moving to a place where… Read More »
Lane-splitting is beneficial to motorists in that it curbs congestion, lowers commute times, and, if done right, enhances the safety of motorcyclists. The problem is that most people don’t know how to execute lane-splitting, making the habit more of a danger than an advantage to motorcyclists and other road users. If you are moving to a place where lane-splitting is legal, or you just bought your first bike, there are things you need to know about this skill before hitting the road. Here are a few useful tips to keep in mind:
Watch out for abrupt lane changes
It is not uncommon for drivers to switch lanes randomly during heavy traffic. This is something you should be aware of before comfortably sandwiching yourself between two vehicles. Always reduce your speed when a lane starts moving, and keep your eye on the turn signals of the vehicles in front of you.
There is a good chance you won’t be the at-fault party if you hit a car that was in the process of switching lanes. Regardless of who you think is liable for the accident, make sure to get in touch with an accident lawyer such as levarlaw.com to investigate the accident on your behalf and potentially help you get your rightful compensation.
Avoid lane splitting between two large vehicles
Lane splitting two large vehicles can be pretty dangerous, and if you must do it, make sure you don’t stay in the drivers’ blind spots for too long. If either of the drivers decides to change lanes, it could turn out deadly for you.
Always cover the brake
The prospect of drivers in front of you, deciding to change lanes while you are in the middle of lane-splitting makes it necessary that you are ready to brake at any time. Make it a habit to cover your bike’s front brake right before embarking on a lane-splitting mission and releasing it only when you are back in the lane.
Assume drivers don’t see you
As the adage goes, when driving, assume everyone else on the road is an idiot. Keep this in mind every time you split lanes. Many drivers don’t expect you to cruise past them during a traffic snarl-up. Most will be focused on the bumper of the vehicle in front of them or waiting for a chance to move into the adjacent lane. Assuming the drivers aren’t seeing, you can significantly improve your decision-making and reduce your risk of getting involved in an accident.
Limit your speed
This should go without saying, but the urge to weave past vehicles stuck in traffic is simply irresistible for some motorcyclists. Speeding between lanes reduces your reaction time if a driver decides to switch lanes or you reach an intersection you didn’t expect.
Endnote
While lane splitting can reduce the amount you spend on the road, it is something that requires learning and mastering. Don’t launch yourself into it. Take the time to understand traffic flows and motorist behaviour before giving it a go.
