Motorcycles are uniquely small and maneuverable among the different types of vehicles that use our nation’s roads. It’s only natural to want to weave through slow-moving traffic, share a lane, or otherwise take advantage of your vehicle’s maneuverability. However, each state regulates these and other roadway maneuvers differently.
So today, we are going to tackle the question, "Is lane splitting legal in NC?" while learning what North Carolina requires of motorcyclists to stay safe and stay on the right side of the law.
What is Lane Splitting?
Lane splitting is the practice of a motorcyclist riding between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic. This maneuver allows motorcyclists to bypass congestion and reduce travel time. While it can be convenient for riders, it raises significant safety concerns due to the close proximity to other vehicles and the potential for sudden lane changes by drivers.
Lane Splitting Vs. Lane Sharing
Lane splitting should not be confused with lane sharing. Lane sharing, also known as lane filtering, involves two motorcycles riding side by side in a single lane. This practice is often used when motorcyclists ride in groups and want to stay close together. Lane sharing is generally considered safer than lane splitting because it does not involve weaving through traffic and can be performed within the designated lane space.
Is Lane Splitting Legal in NC in 2024?
According to MyFox8, lane splitting and lane filtering are illegal in North Carolina. This is supported by North Carolina General Statute (NCGS) § 20-146, which mandates that all vehicles, including motorcycles, must stay within a single lane and prohibits moving between lanes in congested traffic. Therefore, motorcyclists caught lane splitting could face legal consequences under this statute.
Can Motorcycles Ride Side by Side in NC?
Motorcycles can legally ride side by side in North Carolina under specific conditions. NCGS § 20-149 permits motorcycles to share a lane as long as they do so safely and without impeding traffic. This means that while lane splitting is prohibited, lane sharing is allowed, provided it does not create a hazard for other road users.
Statutes on Driving Motorcycles in North Carolina
Several statutes regulate motorcycle operations in North Carolina to ensure the safety of riders and other motorists, and should clear up the question, “Is lane splitting legal in NC?”:
|
Statute |
Description |
|
NCGS § 20-146 |
This statute requires vehicles to remain within a single lane and explicitly prohibits lane splitting. It prevents motorcycles and other vehicles from weaving between lanes in congested traffic. |
|
NCGS § 20-149 |
This statute allows motorcycles to ride side by side in a single lane, provided it is done safely. This supports lane sharing but reinforces the prohibition against lane splitting. |
|
NCGS § 20-150 |
Motorcyclists must ensure they have sufficient space and visibility to pass other vehicles safely, adhering to safe passing practices. |
|
NCGS § 20-150.1 |
Prohibits passing in no-passing zones. This applies to all vehicles, including motorcycles, and is intended to prevent accidents in areas where visibility and space are limited. |
|
NCGS § 20-154 |
Requires signaling before changing lanes or turning so that all motorcyclists communicate their intentions to other drivers, thus helping to avoid accidents, property damage, and injury. |
Understanding these statutes is essential for motorcyclists to stay compliant with the law and ensure their safety on the roads.
Is Lane Splitting Legal in NC? What If It Causes an Accident?
If a motorcycle lane splitting in North Carolina causes an accident, several outcomes could occur:
- Liability for the Motorcyclist: The motorcyclist could be held liable for the accident due to engaging in an unsafe or illegal maneuver. This could lead to fines, points on their driving record, or other penalties.
- Insurance Implications: If found at fault, the motorcyclist’s insurance might have to cover damages to the other party involved in the accident. This could also affect the motorcyclist’s insurance rates.
- Injury Claims: Both the motorcyclist and others involved in the accident might suffer injuries. Since North Carolina follows the contributory negligence rule, if the motorcyclist is even slightly at fault, they may be barred from recovering damages.
- Legal Consequences: The incident could lead to traffic citations or more severe charges, depending on the circumstances, like reckless driving.
- Civil Litigation: The parties involved could pursue civil litigation to recover damages for injuries and property damage. The outcome would depend on demonstrating fault and damages.
Motorcyclists should consider these potential consequences and operate within the traffic laws of North Carolina to avoid accidents and legal issues. If you have been involved in a car accident where lane splitting by a motorcyclist was the cause, consulting with a legal expert specializing in personal injury is crucial to understanding your rights.
Call Irons & Irons, P.A. to Learn More About NC Motorcycle Law
Keeping track of state motorcycle laws can be challenging, but if you get in an accident caused by motorcycle negligence, it can be the difference between a successful lawsuit or paying your bills out of pocket. At Irons & Irons, P.A., we take pride in helping accident victims like you navigate the law and will fight for your rights. Get in touch today if you need to learn more about the nuances of motorcycle law in North Carolina.