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Is Lane Splitting Legal for Motorcycles in New Jersey?

NJ Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Riders have asked about lane splitting. Lane splitting is passing slow or stopped vehicles ahead of you in your lane. This can be dangerous for motorcyclists and other drivers if not executed safely.

New Jersey motorcycle accident lawyer Jerry Friedman breaks down lane splitting laws in NJ and how this can be a safety measure for motorcyclists.

New Jersey Motorcycle Lane Splitting Laws

The answer is not 100% clear. There is no New Jersey traffic law that specifically prohibits lane splitting. New Jersey traffic laws do require passing only on the left, with passing on the right allowed only when the vehicle ahead is making or about to make a left turn. The New Jersey Driver Manual advises motorcycle riders not to lane split. Riders who are lane splitting risk being struck by vehicles suddenly changing lanes.

On the other hand, lane splitting may be a safety practice for motorcycles riders to avoid the possibility of being hit from behind while being stopped in traffic. Over 50% of motorcycles accidents occur in stop and go traffic. Research by the National Highway Safety Administration indicates that lane splitting may actually reduce the number of motorcycle accident. Lane splitting also helps to alleviate traffic congestion. Motorcycles with air-cooled engines stopped in traffic for too long can overheat and possibly become an impediment to traffic.

Our New Jersey Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help You Understand Lane Splitting Laws

If you’re going to lane split, make sure it is safe to do so! If you have questions about lane splitting laws in New Jersey, contact NJ motorcycle accident attorney Jerry Friedman for a free consultation at 1-800-LAW-4-HOGS today.

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