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Sep 24, 2026
Motorcycles are popular in Metairie and throughout Louisiana, but it is crucial for riders of all experience levels to know the risks they face on their bikes as well as the specific laws that apply to motorcycle riders, and Louisiana’s lane-splitting laws are some of the most important. While lane-splitting may be allowed in some states, it is strictly illegal in Louisiana.
Motorcycle Riders and Louisiana’s Lane-Splitting Laws
“Lane splitting” is a term used to describe a motorcycle passing between two lanes of traffic or occupying space in a lane next to a larger vehicle. Some motorcyclists may split a lane to get ahead of slower-moving traffic, and it may seem like a viable maneuver to avoid a collision in some traffic situations. However, this practice is illegal in Louisiana. If you are observed lane-splitting, this could result in a ticket, and if it causes an accident, you face worse penalties.
The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission reported that in 2024, there were 1,242 injury crashes involving motorcycles statewide, and 69 motorcyclists died in crashes that year. Motorcyclists have the same right to hold space in a lane of traffic as other motorists, and two motorcyclists can ride side-by-side in the same lane. However, splitting a lane in any way is not only illegal but also extremely dangerous.
When a motorcyclist splits a lane, they could easily startle another nearby driver, resulting in an accident. They could also attempt to split a lane just when another driver in front of them was attempting to change lanes. Additionally, lane splitting requires overtaking the surrounding drivers, and this may lead to unsafe speeds. Speeding is one of the leading contributing factors to fatal motorcycle accidents in Louisiana every year.
What to Expect When Lane-Splitting Causes an Accident in Metairie
If you or a family member was recently involved in a motorcycle accident and lane-splitting was a contributing factor, this will affect the outcome of the case and how much compensation you obtain. In Louisiana, vehicle accident cases involving multiple parties are resolved on a fault basis, meaning whoever causes an accident is liable for the resulting damages, but it is possible for multiple parties to share fault, in which case each will receive a fault percentage.
When you are found partially liable for your recent accident due to lane-splitting, Louisiana’s modified comparative fault rule comes into play, and your fault percentage will determine whether you can still claim compensation for your damages. If you are found 51% or more at fault, then you lose your ability to claim compensation from any other liable party.
You will need to consult a Metairie motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible after your accident. If you split a lane and this contributed to your crash, then you are likely to face a diminished recovery, or you could be barred from claiming damages if you are found more at fault than the other driver. You’ll need an attorney’s help to minimize the fault percentage assigned to you and to guide you through your recovery efforts.
Ultimately, you are likely to have many difficult legal questions in the aftermath of your motorcycle accident in Metairie. The sooner you speak with an attorney, the more likely you will be to reach a favorable outcome, even if you share fault for the accident. Reach out to the team at the Blake Jones Law Firm, LLC as soon as possible to learn how we can help with your case.
FAQs
Who Is At Fault for a Lane Splitting Accident in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, fault for a lane splitting accident could fall to multiple parties. Since lane splitting is illegal in Louisiana, the motorcyclist is likely to bear partial fault for the accident, but if they are found more at fault than the other driver or drivers involved, they may be found responsible for the resulting damages. Hire a motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible after such a crash so they can help you determine liability.
Why Are Motorcycle Accidents More Dangerous Than Car Accidents?
Motorcycle accidents are more dangerous than car accidents because a rider has very little physical protection in an accident compared to a passenger vehicle driver. A motorcycle does not have the safety features found in most enclosed vehicles, and the rider faces the risk of serious injury from the initial impact with the other vehicle, followed by the impact of hitting the ground. Many motorcycle accidents result in catastrophic injuries.
What Evidence Is Required in a Motorcycle Accident Claim?
The evidence required in a motorcycle accident claim includes many of the same types of evidence that would be required in other vehicle accident cases. Vehicle black-box data, drivers’ cell phone records, physical evidence from the scene of the crash, eyewitness testimony, and police reports are just a few examples of the evidence injured riders often need in their cases.
What Is a Motorcycle Accident Claim Worth in Metairie?
The value of a motorcycle accident claim in Metairie depends on the nature of the damages you suffered and their severity. If you can prove another motorist is responsible for causing your accident, you may be able to recover compensation for medical bills, vehicle repairs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. You’re more likely to secure appropriate compensation if you have a Metairie motorcycle accident attorney representing you.
Should I Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer After a Lane Splitting Accident?
Yes, you should hire a motorcycle accident lawyer after a lane splitting accident or any other motorcycle accident in Louisiana. Whether your crash happened on a busy highway like I-10 or on a smaller local road, the right attorney can help you prove fault, reduce any fault percentage assigned to you, and ultimately help you recover appropriate compensation for the damages you suffered.
The team at the Blake Jones Law Firm, LLC can provide compassionate and results-driven legal counsel after a motorcycle accident in Metairie. Whether you split a lane on your motorcycle and contributed to an accident or another driver did so and injured you, we can help. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Metairie motorcycle accident attorney.
