Motorcycles share the same rights as any other driver on the road. But due to their lack of protection, there are additional laws put in place to ensure the safety of riders. Lane splitting is the practice where a motorcyclist rides between lanes of traffic. It typically occurs in heavy traffic when cars are moving slowly or at a standstill to reduce travel time.
Is Lane Splitting Legal in North Carolina?
In North Carolina lane splitting is illegal. Motorcyclists must follow the same traffic laws as other vehicles, including staying within a single lane of traffic and not riding between lanes or rows of vehicles. Motorcycle riders are entitled to the full use of any lane and are not allowed to drive in a way that prevents other motorcyclists from using the full lane. They may engage in lane sharing which occurs if they choose to share a single lane with another motorcycle.
While many believe that lane splitting is a dangerous act – and many do it for the thrill – motorcycle riders often lane-split for safety reasons. Lane splitting results in less congestion as fewer vehicles are on the road, making motorcyclists less likely to get rear-ended by another driver. Nonetheless, riders must abide by the laws put in place in the state they are riding in.
Additional NC Motorcycle Laws
Licensing
To legally operate a motorcycle, you must have a valid motorcycle endorsement on your driver’s license. This requires passing a written test, vision test, and a road skills test. When registering a motorcycle, there is no requirement to have a license or motorcycle endorsement. However, you do need to show proof of motorcycle insurance, which often requires a license before insurance providers will provide you coverage.
Helmet Law
The Department of Transportation (DOT) requires all motorcycle operators and passengers to wear an approved helmet at all times. DOT compliant helmets must have a label on the back reading “DOT” which certifies the helmet meets regulations.
Equipment
To renew your registration, your motorcycle must undergo an annual inspection to check various components. This includes ensuring that the headlights, taillights, and brake lights are functioning properly. The vehicle must also be equipped with turn signals, a rear-view mirror, at least one headlamp, and front and rear brakes. While not mandatory, experts recommend wearing riding boots, thick motorcycle gloves, leather jackets, and durable pants or jeans. These are recommendations for the protection and safety of riders.
Red Light Laws
As a general rule, motorcyclists must come to a complete stop at a red light and wait for it to turn green. However, certain traffic lights are controlled by an inductive loop detector, a type of sensor that detects passing vehicles and ensures light changes based on current traffic conditions. Motorcycles are smaller and have lower metal content than larger vehicles, which may lead to detectors having difficulty detecting a motorcycle, which may not change the traffic light when needed. As a result, they can proceed through red lights at intersections under certain circumstances, including coming to a complete stop and waiting at least three minutes for the red light to change, and ensuring no other vehicle or pedestrian is approaching the intersection. Once they determine it is safe to proceed, they may go through the red light with caution.
Contact Us
Due to the size and exposure that comes along with driving a motorcycle, also comes increased safety risks. If you or a loved one has been in a lane splitting accident or another type of motorcycle accident, contact our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys at Maginnis Howard to understand your legal rights. Maginnis Howard has three offices with locations in Charlotte, Raleigh, and Fayetteville. To reach an intake specialist, visit our contact page or submit an inquiry through our Live Chat feature. You may also call us at (919) 526-0450. We accept clients across the Carolinas.
Motorcycle Laws FAQ
What is Lane Splitting?
Lane splitting is the practice where a motorcycle or bicycle rides between two lanes of stopped or slow-moving cars, typically in heavy traffic.
Is Lane Splitting Legal?
Specific laws for lane splitting vary from state to state, but the only state that lane splitting is explicitly legal in is California.
Can You Register a Motorcycle Without a License in North Carolina?
While you can register a motorcycle without a license, you cannot legally ride it on public roads without a valid motorcycle endorsement or learner’s permit.
What is the Helmet Law in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, the helmet law requires all motorcycle riders and passengers to wear helmets that meet the standards set by the U.S. DOT. This law applies to all riders and passengers regardless of age.
