Is Lane Sharing Allowed in the State of Florida by Motor Scooter Operators?

In the State of Florida, lane sharing is permitted under the law for motor scooters. Lane sharing takes place when operators of motorcycles or motor scooters ride two abreast in the same lane. While lane splitting is prohibited under Florida law, lane sharing is permitted as long as the motorcycle or motor scooter operator is traveling at a safe speed and otherwise in a reasonable manner. Pursuant to Section 316.209, Florida Statutes, lane sharing is permitted under subsection 4.

Otherwise, motorcyclists and motor scooter operators have full right to the road just like drivers of motor vehicles. It should be pointed out that Florida is a comparative fault state. As such, when there is an accident or a crash involving a motor scooter, the fault may be apportioned to more than one or more parties. For many accidents involving a motor scooter, the fault is 100 % on the other driver for running a red light, running a stop sign, making an improper left turn, violating the right of way, rear ending the motor scooter operator, or driving in some other manner that is negligence or otherwise careless.

When there is a motor scooter accident, it is often helpful to contact the local law enforcement agency to document the details of the crash, take witness statements, and otherwise obtain insurance and other important documentation. While it is helpful to have a police report in place, the issuance or lack of issuance of a traffic citation is not controlling on the civil case or claim for damages. For example, if the police officer cites the driver who crashed into the motor scooter operator, this does not mean that liability or fault is set or pre-ordained for an injury case or claim for the damages / injuries caused by the crash.

In the aftermath of a motor scooter crash or accident, there are a number of challenges faced by the motor scooter operator and the family of the injury victim. These challenges can relate to medical bills, insurance coverage, and medical treatment. Insurance companies and adjusters are well represented by risk managers, adjusters, and yes attorneys. The motor scooter injury victim should also have legal representation in place for advice and guidance.

David Wolf is a personal injury and motor scooter accident attorney based in Jacksonville, Florida. He handles accident cases throughout the State of Florida. With over 30 years of experience, David Wolf understands the intricacies and challenges of personal injury claims and cases. He provides a Free Consultation on all personal injury cases and is available days, nights, and weekends to his clients and prospective clients. Attorney David Wolf is the author of over 4,000 articles and 12 books that focus on personal injury and safety issues. Contact David Wolf at (904) 500-WOLF or (904) 500-9653 or by e-mail at dwolf@davidalanwolf.com