Motorcyclist Injured in Crash on Ventura 134 Freeway

A fiery motorcycle crash erupted on the westbound Ventura (134) Freeway this morning, according to officials, the Los Angeles Times reports. Around 11:00 a.m. on May 31, 2012, a 25-year-old man suffered minor injuries after his motorcycle collided with another vehicle and caught fire.

English: Two motorcycles lane splitting in Cal...
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The motorcyclist was “splitting traffic” between the number 1 and 2 lanes, California Highway Patrol Officer Kevin Denmon said, The Times reports. He was trying to pass a white BMW that was in front of him in the carpool lane.

Denmon said that people who witnessed the event said the motorcyclist had been traveling at more than 70 miles per hour. He said that because of a reason that is not known, the motorcyclist lost control and hit the BMW as he was trying to pass. The motorcyclist was ejected as a result of the impact. He went to the ground, Denmon said, and the motorcycle slid along traffic lanes and caught fire. The bike was totaled, Denmon explained.

Responders took the motorcyclist, who suffered minor scrapes and bruises, to Providence St. Joseph Medical Center. Denmon stated that the driver and passenger who had been traveling in the BMW were not hurt, The Times reports.

Lane splitting is a complicated and controversial practice in the United States, although it is practiced quite frequently in many countries throughout the world.

Of the 50 states in the U.S., only California does not prohibit motorcyclists from splitting lanes.

Many other states in the union are raising questions about its legality though, and its relative safety.

State legislatures have considered passing several bills for the last twenty years or so, but none have been enacted so far.

In some areas of the world, there are no laws, or very few laws, that state clearly whether or not lane splitting is legal. Some countries largely ignore it, if they do not believe that it contributes to an increase in accidents. For instance, in Australia, authorities tried to clear up and reorganize the laws regarding lane splitting. However, the majority of the population regarded this as an attack on the actual act itself and petitioned it. Eventually the government just left everything the way it was.

There are several techniques that motorcyclists must master before they can consider themselves experienced enough to ride in the center of two lanes. For example, when traffic is slowed or stopped, it is important that motorcyclists pay attention to the possibility that vehicle doors may open into the motorcyclist’s path. Also, motorists are prone to sudden movements like lane changes or swerving, which can also harm the biker.

If you, or someone you love, have been injured by a negligent or unaware motorist, then you should call a motorcycle accident lawyer. The roads throughout California are some of the busiest traffic corridors in the United States, and some of the most dangerous. Our Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyer can help you, and your family, win the maximum compensation that you deserve for you emotional, physical and financial suffering. We are well-equipped to fight the insurance companies and other parties on your behalf. We also have convenient locations throughout the state, so that we can help you as soon as possible. Call today for your free evaluation!

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