Atlanta’s bustling traffic can be brutal for anyone, but for motorcyclists, it can be particularly frustrating. Stuck in gridlock, it’s natural to wonder if splitting lanes and weaving between stopped or slow-moving vehicles could offer a faster escape. However, an Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer warns that the traffic rules in Georgia do not allow this maneuver.
Lane Splitting is Illegal in Georgia
The most important takeaway? Lane splitting is illegal in Georgia. Official Code of Georgia Annotated (O.C.G.A.) § 40-6-312 states that:
“No person shall operate a motorcycle… between lanes of traffic or adjacent rows or lines of traffic.”
This applies to all situations, regardless of traffic speed or congestion. Whether you’re inching forward in rush hour or cruising on a seemingly empty highway, lane splitting remains illegal.
Penalties for Lane Splitting
While a traffic citation might be the first thought that comes to mind when considering the consequences of lane splitting in Georgia, the potential repercussions extend far beyond a simple fine. Here’s a deeper dive into the penalties you might face:
Financial Consequences
The basic fine for lane splitting in Georgia starts at $130. However, this amount can climb significantly depending on the specific county and additional charges levied. Local ordinances might introduce higher penalties, and factors like reckless driving or causing an accident can significantly increase the financial burden.
Beyond the base fine, expect additional court costs and fees associated with processing the traffic violation. These can vary depending on the court but typically add another layer of financial impact.
A lane splitting conviction carries three points on your driver’s license. This can lead to increased insurance premiums, potentially putting a dent in your budget for years to come. In some cases, repeated violations or severe accidents could even result in difficulty obtaining or maintaining motorcycle insurance altogether.
Driving Record and License Impact
As mentioned above, three points are assessed for every lane splitting conviction. Points accumulate over time, and reaching a certain threshold can lead to license suspension or even revocation. This can have cascading consequences, impacting your ability to drive any vehicle and potentially affecting employment opportunities.
In some cases, particularly for repeat offenders or those involved in accidents, judges might impose probation periods or mandatory motorcycle safety courses. These additional requirements further impact your time and finances.
Potential Civil Liability
If you’re involved in an accident while lane splitting, you’re automatically considered at fault in the eyes of the law. This means you could be held liable for any damages to other vehicles or injuries sustained by other drivers, passengers, or even pedestrians. This liability can extend to significant medical bills, property repair costs, and even lawsuits, potentially causing substantial financial hardship.
Even if an accident doesn’t directly involve another vehicle, a prosecutor or injured party might argue that your unsafe lane splitting played a role in causing the incident. This could lead to claims of negligence and further legal repercussions.
Alternatives to Lane Splitting
While lane splitting may seem tempting, several safer and legal alternatives exist for Atlanta riders to navigate heavy traffic:
Embrace Defensive Driving
Scan your surroundings continuously, checking mirrors and blind spots frequently. Communicate your intentions well in advance of any lane changes or maneuvers. Sudden braking, weaving, or speeding can increase the risk of accidents. Maintain a steady pace and adjust smoothly to traffic flow.
Ride defensively, assuming other drivers might not see you: Be prepared for the unexpected and avoid relying solely on other drivers’ awareness.
Use Designated Motorcycle Lanes
Plan your route with dedicated motorcycle lanes in mind: Several major Atlanta roads have designated motorcycle lanes, offering a legal and often faster way to travel during peak hours.
Familiarize yourself with the rules and limitations of motorcycle lanes. Understand the permitted speeds, merging procedures, and any restrictions on lane usage. Yield to merging traffic and avoid aggressive behavior. Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and exercise caution when entering or exiting the designated lane.
Optimize Your Travel
Choose less congested roads or alternative routes that might shave off time even without lane splitting. Consider avoiding major highways during peak hours or using backroads and surface streets.
If possible, schedule your trips outside of rush hour periods when traffic is lighter. Early mornings or late evenings can offer a smoother ride than peak commuting times.
Talk to an Experienced Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Despite taking all the precautions we explained here, you may be involved in a motorcycle accident caused by a negligent driver. In this situation, you should get in touch with an experienced Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer at The Weinstein Firm.
We will analyze your evidence and represent you on a contingency fee basis if you have a valid case. Call us today at 770-HELP-NOW for a free case review.
