Fatal Wreck Claims Life of Motorcyclist That Was Lane Splitting

A fatal crash between a motorcyclist and another vehicle has reopened the debate on lane splitting, and how the controversial act by motorcyclists can be dangerous.

Lane splitting is the act of driving in between two lanes by a motorcyclist. It allows them to coast through traffic easily, but it is obviously dangerous. In this particular accident, the motorcyclist was lane splitting near a slower lane of traffic when the motorcyclist collided with the rear of another vehicle. The motorcyclist suffered fatal injuries in the crash on US 101 in Palo Alto, California.

Little else is known about the crash, though the investigation into the accident is ongoing. Drugs and alcohol don’t appear to be a factor in the wreck, though if negligence was a part of the crash, it will soon be established by the police.

The investigation into any motor vehicle accident carries a lot of weight when it comes to determining liability. If you have been in an accident, be patient with the police as they work through all of the details to make a decision. Also, remember that new evidence that is revealed after the investigation is complete can lead to an alteration of the final report on the crash.

Ultimately though, the unfortunate lesson in this story is that when motorcyclists are involved in a crash, they often suffer serious or fatal injuries. Their vehicles inherently offer less protection than any other vehicle out there. So if you are near a motorcyclist on the road, be as careful as you can be.

Source: KRON, “Lane splitting leads to fatal motorcycle crash on US 101,” Emily Kirschenheuter, Sept. 23, 2015