Lane splitting, the practice of a motorcyclist riding between two lanes of traffic, is illegal in Indiana. If a motorcyclist is involved in a crash while lane splitting, they may lose their payout even if the other driver is clearly at fault.
Indiana’s Comparative Fault System
Under Indiana’s comparative fault system, the amount of compensation a person receives depends on their share of fault. If a motorcyclist is found to be partially at fault for the crash, their compensation may be reduced. For example, if a motorcyclist is found to be 20% at fault, their $100,000 claim could be reduced to $80,000.
Lane splitting is considered a traffic violation in Indiana and can be used as evidence of comparative fault. Insurance companies may argue that the motorcyclist’s decision to lane split contributed to the crash, even if the other driver was also at fault.
Understanding Your Rights
If you are accused of lane splitting after a crash, it is essential to understand your rights and the potential impact on your claim. Reviewing the police report and gathering evidence, such as photographs and witness statements, can help you understand what happened and respond to the claim.
It is also crucial to seek advice from a lawyer before making a decision on a settlement offer. A lawyer can review the circumstances of the crash and help you understand how the lane splitting accusation may affect your compensation.
Original reporting: 93.1 WIBC (Indianapolis) — read the source article.
