As the weather warms up, you can expect to see more motorcycles on the roads throughout South Carolina. This article will address motorcycle lane splitting in SC, including if it’s legal, the dangers of lane splitting, what happens if lane splitting causes an accident, and more.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident or car accident, it’s in your best interests to speak to a reputable South Carolina injury attorney. For a complimentary case evaluation, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team today. We’re available via phone 24/7 at (803) 888-2200 and we’re here to help.

What Is Motorcycle Lane Splitting?

Motorcycle Lane Splitting Between Cars

Lane splitting, also known as “white-lining” occurs when a motorcyclist drives between two lanes of traffic. This is typically done by driving along the line that separates lanes from each other, often in between vehicles and done to avoid traffic.

Lane splitting primarily happens on roads with more than one lane traveling in the same direction.

For example, in South Carolina, this may include interstate roads such as Interstate 20, Interstate 26, Interstate 77, I-85, I-95, I-526, etc.

In Columbia, this can include Farrow Road, Two Notch Rd, Broad River Road, Killian Rd, Assembly St, Elmwood Ave, and more.

In Charleston, this may include on Rivers Avenue, Sam Rittenberg Blvd, U.S. 17, Rivers Ave, and even bridges like the Ravenel, Wando, and Don N. Holt bridges.

Is Lane Splitting Legal in South Carolina?

Lane splitting is illegal in South Carolina and can lead to traffic citations.

According to South Carolina motorcycle laws, “No person shall operate a motorcycle between lanes of traffic, or between adjacent lines or rows of vehicles” (S.C. Code Section 56-5-3640).

It is also illegal for a motorcyclist to pass a vehicle in the same lane, which can also result in a citation.

What is the Difference Between Lane Splitting and Lane Sharing in South Carolina?

While lane splitting is illegal under South Carolina law, lane sharing is not.

S.C. Code Section 56-5-3640 states that, “Motorcycles shall not be operated more than two abreast in a single lane.” 

This means that up to two motorcyclists can ride next to each other in the same lane.

What Happens When Lane Splitting Causes an Accident?

Not only is lane splitting illegal under state law, but it’s also dangerous and poses risk of injury to motorcyclists and motor vehicle operators alike. 

If a motorcycle was lane splitting, directly causing an accident that injured you, then you may qualify for compensation for all related damages.

Whether you are an injured driver or passenger in a vehicle following an accident caused by a motorcycle lane splitting, it is in your best interest to speak with a qualified personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.

South Carolina is a modified comparative negligence state, meaning that as long as you were found to be no more than 50% at fault for the accident, then you can recover some amount of compensation. The percent you are found to be at fault for the crash directly impacts the amount of compensation you can recover for your damages.

Our reputable injury attorneys will gather evidence to prove who was at-fault for the accident and optimize your personal injury claim to ensure you get the entirety of what you’re owed under South Carolina law. Our mission is to secure the best outcome for your future.

If you are an injured biker who was lane splitting when the accident occurred, then you will likely be found partially or fully at-fault depending on the specifics of the accident, as lane splitting is illegal under South Carolina law.

However, if you were injured in a motorcycle wreck that you believe was not your fault, then you should speak to a reputable lawyer as soon as possible. Generally, due to a motorcycle’s reduced size and very limited safety features, motorcycle accidents can lead to significant rider injury, such as road rash, broken bones, SCI, catastrophic injury, and even wrongful death. 

Our lawyers have the tools and experience to optimize your motorcycle accident personal injury claim, ensuring you get fairly compensated for all past, present, and future damages related to the accident such as compensation for medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and more.

Injured in a Motorcycle Accident? Contact The Award-Winning Lawyers at Cavanaugh & Thickens, LLC Today

You don’t have to go through the recovery or legal process alone. Get a free, no obligation case evaluation with the experienced attorneys at Cavanaugh & Thickens, LLC today. To get started on the road to justice and recovery, simply give our team a call at (803) 888-2200. For your convenience, we offer consultations over the phone and in-person at our Columbia and Charleston offices.