Kokomo Lane Splitting Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

We are a Kokomo lane splitting motorcycle accident lawyer firm dedicated to representing riders and motorists injured in collisions caused by illegal lane splitting. Every day, we see the devastating consequences when someone attempts to ride between lanes in Kokomo, IN.

Our experience shows that what seems like a shortcut often becomes a life‑altering mistake. In this article, we describe why lane splitting is unlawful in Indiana, how it leads to dangerous crashes, and why hiring a motorcycle accident attorney in Kokomo is essential after a collision.

We aim to educate Kokomo motorists and riders, equip you with actionable insights, and guide you through the legal process following an accident. If you recently experienced a collision caused by lane splitting, as your collision attorney in Kokomo, we are ready to help you pursue full justice.

What Is Lane Splitting and Why Does It Matter?

Lane splitting occurs when a motorcyclist rides between two slow‑moving or stopped motor vehicle traffic lanes. It differs from lane filtering, in which a rider moves forward through stopped traffic at a very low speed. Regardless of terminology, Indiana law prohibits any practice that deprives a vehicle of full lane usage.

Under Indiana Code § 9‑21‑10‑6, every driver must “drive within a single lane and shall not move from that lane until the driver has determined that such movement can be made with safety.” That makes lane splitting illegal throughout Indiana. We enforce this law to protect motorcyclists and other road users, and we represent victims harmed when illegal lane splitting triggers accidents in Kokomo.

Indiana Law on Lane Splitting

Indiana is among the few U.S. states that explicitly criminalize lane splitting. As noted by Vaughan & Vaughan, Indiana Code prohibits depriving any driver of full lane usage; lane splitting inherently violates that statute.

Local communities such as Kokomo strictly enforce this under state law. Engaging in lane splitting can lead to fines, driver’s license points, and civil liability if accidents occur. As your Kokomo lane splitting motorcycle accident lawyer, we leverage this clear legal basis to demonstrate fault in collisions caused by lane splitting.

The Risks of Lane Splitting

Lane splitting increases collision risks, particularly in urban settings like Kokomo. Common hazards include:

• Limited reaction time between cars and motorcycles
• Reduced visibility, especially in blind spots
• Unexpected door openings from stopped traffic

Multiple studies and legal analyses support these issues. Indiana Tort Law describes how lane splitting “carries inherent risks. When zipping between lanes, riders are more likely to encounter sudden obstacles, such as a car changing lanes without signaling.”

Nationwide, lane splitting has been a factor in nearly 9,500 unsafe lane change incidents, resulting in almost 400 motorcyclist injuries in a single year.

Statistical Snapshot: Motorcycle Safety in Indiana

Indiana’s crash data underscores the dangers riders face, especially involving lane splitting. According to Indiana’s FY 2023 safety report, motorcyclist fatalities rose slightly from 125 to 130, and unhelmeted fatalities rose from 85 to 86. A broader five‑year average from 2016–2020 shows annual motorcycle fatalities averaging 121, with injury in 72 % of crashes and deaths in 4.2 %.

These statewide numbers are reflected locally in Kokomo, as dozens of collisions annually involve serious injuries or worse. When illegal lane splitting is the catalyst, the consequences become more severe. Our office handles numerous cases each year—representing riders and vehicles alike—by using aggressive investigation techniques to prove lane splitting caused the crash.

National Context: Motorcycle Fatalities

Nationally, motorcycle riders face disproportionate risks. In 2023, motorcyclists comprised 15 % of all traffic fatalities—6,335 deaths—the highest total since 1975. Excluding motorcycles, fatalities have declined, but motorcycle deaths continue to rise. In 2022, U.S. motorcycle fatality rates were nearly 22 times higher per mile traveled than passenger cars.

This national trend is echoed in Indiana and Kokomo whenever riders choose risky maneuvers like lane splitting. As collision attorney in Kokomo, we emphasize this broader context to underscore how dangerous illegal behavior becomes, helping juries and insurers understand the severity of the conduct.

Why Lane Splitting Causes Accidents

Multiple logical factors converge in lane splitting collisions:

1. Close proximity to vehicles ­– leaving very little margin for error
2. Sudden lane changes by cars as drivers fail to spot the motorcyclist
3. Dooring accidents when parked vehicles open into moving riders
4. Variable road conditions—potholes, uneven pavement, debris
5. Blind spots that hide riders moving between lanes

These scenarios often materialize in predictable ways. For example, a rider lane splits between slow cars and a driver signals unexpectedly, changing lanes and causing a collision. The rider has no time to react.

These common scenarios form the core of our representation as Kokomo lane splitting motorcycle accident lawyer, enabling us to secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care needs.

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Indiana Case Law and Enforcement

Though fewer court opinions focus specifically on lane splitting, the traffic code is clear. Any unwilling reduction in lane space can be prosecuted or used to assign fault in civil cases. As stated in Indiana Tort Law, lane splitting may render the motorcyclist fully liable for resulting injuries.

Given this liability, insurers frequently assign blame to the rider—even when vehicle operators contributed. That is why it is crucial for you to have a collision attorney in Kokomo who understands how to challenge improper blame and fully protect your rights.

How We Build Your Case

When you engage us as your Kokomo lane splitting motorcycle accident lawyer, this is how we advocate for you:

• Crash reconstruction: We hire offices to model collision events and analyze lane usage.
• Scene investigation: Photographs, on‑site measurements, and hazard documentation.
• Surveillance and witness interviews: Capturing statements about vehicle movement.
• Traffic and injury expert testimony: Establishing deviation from standard of care.
• Medical documentation: Chronicling diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, and future care.
• Negotiation with insurers: Demanding adequate settlement reflecting full damages.
• Litigation readiness: We never hesitate to file suit when insurers stall or under‑pay.

Our familiarity with lane splitting cases in Kokomo ensures strong cases even against aggressive defense tactics. We handle all aspects of the legal process so you can focus on recovery.

Compensation You May Recover

Victims of lane splitting crashes are entitled to a wide range of damages, such as:

• Medical bills (past, ongoing, future)
• Rehabilitation and therapy
• Lost income and earning potential
• Property damage (motorcycle, personal effects)
• Pain and emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disfigurement and disability damages

Indiana law allows recoveries when someone is injured due to illegal lane splitting and the rider seeks damages from at‑fault drivers. We detail every injury and expense to win fair compensation, either in settlement or by verdict. While absent, lane splitting, your claim might be denied. We take aggressive legal action to hold all liable parties accountable.

Common Misconceptions Debunked

There are myths surrounding lane splitting that lead riders to underestimate risks:

• “It saves time.” Though often true, the time saved is not worth the risk of serious injury or death.
• “Drivers know I am coming.” In reality, many accidents occur because a driver fails to check blind spots.
• “Accidents are rare.” Data shows nearly 9,500 lane‑change incidents linked to lane splitting and hundreds of injuries annually.
• “I will not get caught.” Indiana issues citations when lane splitting contributes to crashes.

When these myths falter, the legal system holds riders fully responsible—and victims often suffer the consequences. As your Kokomo, IN accident lawyer, we educate and protect you through evidence and law.

Statewide Safety Efforts

Indiana continues safety enforcement, especially following FY 2023’s success in reducing overall traffic deaths by 9.2 % and reducing speeding‑related fatalities. The state’s “Click It to Live It” campaigns and motorcycle safety outreach emphasize helmet usage, impaired‑riding prevention, and compliance with lane laws.

Despite these efforts, motorcycle fatalities rose slightly—underscoring how dangerous riding behaviors like lane splitting remain. As Kokomo’s collision attorney, we monitor these statewide trends to support our arguments that lane splitting is dangerous and unacceptable.

What to Do After a Lane Splitting Accident

If you were injured due to someone else’s illegal lane splitting—or found yourself in a similar situation—take these steps:

1. Seek medical help immediately, even if injuries seem minor.
2. Preserve evidence—photos, videos, witness contacts, bike and lane positions.
3. Report the accident to law enforcement; request copies of the crash report.
4. Avoid early settlement offers from insurers; they often undervalue complex cases.
5. Contact a Kokomo lane splitting motorcycle accident lawyer right away.
6. Adhere to deadlines—Indiana’s statute of limitations for personal injury is two years.
7. Allow legal representation to handle communications, preserving your rights.

Follow these steps and consult a trusted motorcycle accident attorney in Kokomo immediately. We build your case while you recover, keeping insurers from taking advantage of your injury and stress.

Why We Stand Out in Kokomo

Here is why we are recognized as a top collision attorney in Kokomo:

• Decades of experience handling defective riding claims and at‑fault driver negligence.
• Deep local roots—we understand Kokomo’s roads, patterns, and accident hotspots.
• Proven success—we have obtained multi‑million dollar results for motorcycle injury victims.
• Client‑first philosophy—we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless we win.
• Holistic support—we coordinate with healthcare providers, therapists, employers, and insurance companies to address your total recovery needs.

Our record of results and reputation as a Kokomo lane-splitting motorcycle accident lawyer reflect our dedication to justice every day.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is lane splitting legal anywhere?

Some states—like California—permit regulated lane splitting. Indiana is not among them; our state prohibits it by law.

Who is at fault in lane-splitting accidents?

Indiana law usually holds the lane splitting rider at fault. We sometimes uncover shared fault if a driver makes a dangerous lane change, but lane splitting will always be scrutinized closely.

What damages can I recover?

Victims can recover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, future treatment costs, and additional non-economic damages consistent with Indiana law.

How long do I have to file a claim?

Indiana allows two years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit. However, it is crucial to contact us immediately—some evidence decays rapidly.

What if I was partially at fault?

Indiana uses comparative fault rules. If you share fault, your recovery is reduced by your percentage of blame. That is why legal guidance matters to reduce your liability exposure.

Understanding the Dangers of Lane-Splitting

Lane splitting is illegal and dangerous in Indiana. If it injures you or someone you love, you need a committed Kokomo lane splitting motorcycle accident lawyer on your side. We bring a proven track record of holding negligent riders and drivers accountable for causing physical, emotional, and financial harm.

We are ready to fight for you as your motorcycle accident attorney in Kokomo and collision attorney in Kokomo. We will build a strong case that demands full compensation for your injuries, pay for your treatment and rehabilitation, and hold wrongdoers responsible.

Contact Vaughn Wamsley today for a free consultation. Let us lift the burden from your shoulders and help you secure both justice and peace of mind.