Can Motorcycles Drive in Carpool (HOV) Lanes in California? 7 tips to maintain your safety

Riding a motorcycle in California is a hobby for many, but riders must still follow certain laws.

There are different rules of the road for California motorcycle drivers.  For example, Lane-Splitting is legal for motorcycles in the state of California.  One of the more unique rules involves the High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane. 

Known to many Angelenos as the carpool lane, it’s generally for automobiles carrying two or more passengers.  However, according to the California Highway Patrol, motorcycles can use the HOV lane without having a specific decal (for example, hybrid cars with a yellow decal can ride in the HOV lane with only a single passenger).

Motorcyclists cannot ride on, in, or over solid double lines. If you are entering or exiting an HOV lane, you can only switch lanes when there is a designated area, or where you are going over a broken or dashed line. 

Another interesting fact is the bikes do not need FasTrak pass in order to ride in the FasTrak lanes. The only exception is if you have a personalized license plate.

Involved in a motorcycle accident?

Motorcycle accidents can be some of the most damaging crashes on the road. There can be various causes of motorcycle accidents. 

Some of the more frequent instances include:

• Distracted Driver – Other drivers can be the greatest risk for motorcyclists. Drivers who are intoxicated, texting, or inattentive are more likely to miss a nearby motorcyclist. 
• Road Debris/Defects – Potholes, tires in the road, and other debris or defects cause a higher risk for motorcyclists. For example, hitting a pothole can cause the driver to lose control of the bike, sending them crashing to the road.
• Weather – Inclement weather conditions can increase the likelihood of motorcycle accidents. Rainy days make the road slick, and visibility can be decreased by raindrops or cloudy conditions.
• Mechanical issues – Brakes may fail to slow down the bike, or there may be a defect in the tires.

Frequent injuries associated with motorcycle accidents are:

• Neck Pain
• Back Pain
• Traumatic Brain Injury
• Broken bones
• Cuts and lacerations
• Internal bleeding
• Organ damage
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Wrongful death

The Motorcycle Safety Foundation offers tips for being safe on the road:

• Be visible – this can include making sure your headlights work, and having them on whether it is day or night.
• Avoid riding in the blind spots of cars and trucks – this can help with your visibility as well.
• Wear a helmet! One that covers your entire face offers the best protection.
• Bright clothing and helmets can increase your chances of being seen on the road.
• Follow all rules of the road.
• Read your bike manual. If you are new to riding, don’t put yourself in dangerous situations.
• Know how to maintain control of your bike in adverse conditions such as wet roads, high
  winds, and uneven surfaces.

If you or a loved one were in a motorcycle accident, our Burbank attorneys at C&B Law Group can help. With 3,000 plus cases settled in six years, we are committed to you and your claim. Furthermore, you can do everything from the comfort of your own home via ZOOM, Facetime, Google Meet, or any system you prefer.

We strongly believe that injured parties who are suffering due to someone else’s negligence should not have to continue struggling. We know about the impact and disruption a motorcycle accident can have on the rider’s life. We are committed to helping our clients.

We vow to represent you to the best of our abilities, and will try to ensure you maximum compensation and satisfaction for your case.

Contact C&B Law Group today for a free consultation.