Lesser-Known Traffic Behaviors That Could Leave You Liable in an Accident

The rules of the road are often clear when driving. However, some lesser-known behaviors can lead to unexpected liabilities if an accident occurs. Many drivers are unaware of subtle actions that, while seemingly harmless or efficient, could place them at fault in the event of a collision. One such behavior is lane-splitting, but several other overlooked habits can result in similar legal consequences. 

Let’s explore a few of these practices that, although common, could cause serious trouble on the road.

Lane-Splitting

Lane-splitting, where motorcyclists ride between lanes of slow-moving or stopped cars, is a contentious practice in many regions. While legal in places like California under specific conditions, it remains illegal in most states. In areas where it’s not allowed, motorcyclists who engage in lane-splitting are typically at fault if an accident happens. 

Beyond the legal implications, lane-splitting at high speeds can lead to devastating consequences. In a tragic example from Atlanta this June, a motorcyclist lost his life while attempting to split lanes at high speed. As he approached an intersection, he collided with a Honda CR-V that was making a left turn, 11 Alive reports. The crash resulted in the motorcyclist’s death at the scene, with his passenger critically injured and the SUV driver also hospitalized.

While the motorcyclist’s death is undeniably tragic, the legality of lane-splitting in Atlanta, Georgia, complicates any potential claims for compensation. Since lane-splitting is illegal in Georgia, the motorcyclist’s insurance may not cover damages for their injuries or death. Most auto insurance policies exclude accidents involving illegal activities, and this could prevent the motorcyclist’s family from successfully pursuing a death claim.

However, for the victim in this case, the driver of the Honda CR-V, the situation is different. An Atlanta car accident lawyer can play a critical role in helping her seek compensation for her injuries and damages. 

They can conduct a thorough investigation to establish fault, gathering crucial evidence like police reports, witness statements, and any available traffic camera footage. This evidence will be essential in demonstrating that the motorcyclist’s illegal lane-splitting was the cause of the accident.

Additionally, Atlanta Personal Injury Law Firm notes that the lawyer can assist in calculating the full extent of her damages to ensure fair compensation. This includes immediate medical expenses as well as lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and pain and suffering.

Which states currently allow lane-splitting?

As of now, lane-splitting is legally permitted in California. Other states, such as Utah and Arizona, have specific laws or provisions that allow for some form of lane-sharing or splitting. However, these laws may vary significantly from one state to another.

Rolling Stops” at Stop Signs

One commonly overlooked violation is the “rolling stop,” where drivers slow down but don’t come to a complete halt at stop signs. This practice can easily lead to accidents at intersections, especially with pedestrians or other vehicles expecting the driver to stop entirely.

The Federal Highway Administration reports that approximately one-quarter of traffic fatalities in the United States are linked to intersections. Additionally, about half of all traffic injuries also occur at these locations. This highlights the importance of obeying stop signs.

Even if a driver feels they’ve assessed the intersection and thinks it’s safe to proceed, failing to make a complete stop is a violation. In the event of an accident, the driver will almost certainly be found at fault for not obeying the stop sign law. This holds true even if the other party was acting recklessly.

Crossing Double-Yellow Lines

Crossing a double-yellow line is another habit that may not seem problematic at the moment but can have severe legal consequences. These lines are specifically placed to indicate areas where it is unsafe to pass, typically due to poor visibility or high-speed limits.

When drivers cross these lines to overtake slower vehicles, they may collide with oncoming traffic or cause other drivers to react dangerously. Even if the overtaking maneuver seems harmless or necessary, liability will fall on the driver for ignoring the road markings. In some cases, these actions could lead to reckless driving charges, further compounding the legal trouble.

Are there any exceptions to crossing double-yellow lines?

In some states, crossing double-yellow lines is allowed when making a left turn into a driveway or onto another street. However, this maneuver is only permissible if it is safe and there is no oncoming traffic, ensuring the turn is safe for others.

Driving Too Slowly in the Passing Lane

While speeding is often seen as a clear traffic violation, driving too slowly in a lane designated for passing can also lead to accidents. Slow drivers in the left lane disrupt traffic flow, forcing other vehicles to make dangerous maneuvers to overtake them. 

Recognizing this issue, a 2021 South Carolina law empowers patrol officers to issue $25 citations to drivers in the far left lane. This applies to those who aren’t actively trying to pass another vehicle. 

Similarly, in Arkansas, the problem has prompted action as well. Since the implementation of Act 1090 in 2021, 411 citations have been issued to motorists for driving too slowly in the left lane. Additionally, over 3,100 warnings have been recorded, according to a December 2023 report by the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. 

Failing to Yield in a Roundabout

Roundabouts can be confusing, particularly for drivers unfamiliar with them. It’s essential to yield to vehicles already circulating in the roundabout. However, many drivers either rush into the circle without checking for oncoming cars or stop unnecessarily, disrupting the flow.

In the event of an accident, failing to yield when entering a roundabout usually places the blame on the driver entering improperly. Roundabouts are designed to reduce the severity of crashes. However, entering one without yielding can lead to fender-benders, often resulting in a fault being assigned to the incoming vehicle.

Who has the right of way in a roundabout?

Vehicles that are already circulating within the roundabout have the right of way, which necessitates that drivers approaching the roundabout yield to them. This regulation facilitates a continuous flow of traffic and minimizes the chances of accidents at the entrance, promoting safer passage through the intersection.

Driving in a Carpool Lane Without a Proper Passenger Count

Carpool or HOV lanes are designed to alleviate traffic by providing drivers with multiple passengers a faster route. However, driving in these lanes with fewer occupants may seem like a minor violation, but it can have serious consequences. If an accident occurs while in a carpool lane, the fault could be attributed to the driver for misusing it. This is particularly important to note, as vehicles with only one occupant, except certain electric cars, are not permitted in these lanes. 

In addition to being fined for illegal use of the carpool lane, drivers may face increased scrutiny regarding their role in any accidents. This is especially true if the accident occurs while they are in a lane they shouldn’t have been using.

Overall, lesser-known driving behaviors, such as lane-splitting or rolling stops, may not seem serious, but they carry significant risks when it comes to accidents. These seemingly minor infractions often place drivers at fault in legal disputes, resulting in both financial and legal consequences. 

Understanding and avoiding these behaviors is critical not just for personal safety but also for protecting yourself from potential liability. Being aware of the finer details of traffic laws can go a long way in preventing accidents and ensuring safe road practices.