Howard Coker | May 13, 2025 | Personal Injury
In Florida, motor scooter operators are a common sight. The state’s warm weather and road systems make motor scooters an attractive option. However, questions frequently arise regarding whether lane sharing is legal for motor scooters.
Lane Sharing vs. Lane Splitting in Florida
Florida law draws a distinction between lane sharing and lane splitting. According to Section 316.209 of the Florida Statutes, lane sharing is permitted under specific circumstances.
Lane sharing occurs when two motor scooters or motorcycles ride side by side in the same lane. This practice is allowed as long as both operators are traveling at safe speeds and adhering to all other traffic regulations.
In contrast, lane splitting involves riding between lanes of traffic or lanes of vehicles moving in the same direction. This practice is strictly prohibited under Florida law. Motor scooter operators who lane split can face fines, citations, and personal injury liability in the event of an accident.
Sharing the Road With Motor Scooters
Under Florida law, motor scooters are afforded the same rights and responsibilities as other motor vehicles. Motor scooter operators are entitled to use the full lane and cannot be forced off the road or squeezed between vehicles. Drivers of cars and trucks must treat motor scooters the same as other vehicles.
However, when it comes to lane sharing, motor scooter operators must exercise caution. Sharing a lane with another motor scooter or motorcycle is lawful, but both operators must maintain control of their vehicles and avoid creating dangerous conditions for other road users.
Comparative Fault in Motor Scooter Accidents
Florida is a modified comparative fault state, meaning that liability for a motor scooter accident can be divided among multiple negligent parties in a crash. Under this rule, if motor scooter lane sharing contributes to a crash, the operator can be held liable for their portion of fault for the collision.
If unsafe lane sharing was the main cause of the crash, a motor scooter operator may lose the right to recover compensation at all.
Steps To Take After a Motor Scooter Accident
In the aftermath of a motor scooter accident, taking immediate action can protect your rights and your potential personal injury claim.
The following steps are recommended:
- Contact Law Enforcement. Report the accident to local authorities and request a police report. While a traffic citation is not determinative of fault in an injury claim, it can provide valuable documentation of the collision.
- Gather Evidence. Take photographs of the accident scene, including damage to the scooter, your injuries, and road conditions.
- Obtain contact and insurance information. You should obtain contact and insurance information from the other parties involved in the crash. You should also request contact info for any witnesses to the accident.
- Seek Medical Attention. Even if your injuries appear minor, you should seek medical evaluation to document the extent of the physical harm caused by the accident. This step will protect your health and prevent other parties from accusing you of failing to mitigate your damages.
- Notify Insurance Providers. Report the accident to all relevant insurance companies. Avoid making recorded statements until consulting with legal counsel.
Lastly, you should consult a personal injury attorney. Insurance claims involving motor scooters are complex. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you navigate your claim and work to maximize your compensation award.
Lane Sharing Is Legal, but Riders Must Be Cautious
Lane sharing is permitted for motor scooters in Florida. However, it must be done with caution and adherence to state traffic laws. Motor scooter operators have a right to use the road but must exercise diligence to reduce the risk of accidents.
Contact The Personal Injury Law Firm of Coker Law Personal Injury Lawyers For a Free Consultation
For more information, please contact the Jacksonville personal injury law firm of Coker Law Personal Injury Lawyers and schedule a free consultation today.
We serve Duval County and its surrounding areas.
Coker Law Personal Injury Lawyers
136 E Bay St #5438
Jacksonville, FL 32202
(904) 356-6071
Find us with our Geo Coordinates: 30.32569719086265, -81.65515220132858
