NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — They are an "absolute menace."
That's the word from both police and the helpless motorists who find themselves victimized by motorcycle drivers splitting between cars.
It's happening more these days. You're on a busy road, and then out of nowhere, a speeding motorcycle comes tearing right past you.
New dashcam video I obtained is enough to give anyone pause. Watch it in the player above.
It shows a motorcyclist speeding down White Bridge Pike on Sunday, and he does something police call splitting.
That's splitting the lane, and then barely squeezing between two cars. And in this case, the cyclist knocked off a piece of a rearview mirror.
The witness who shot the video on dash cam said the guy then sped away leaving the startled motorists behind.
"He literally just took off going like 100 mph. I know he knew it was wrong he hit somebody and didn't care and he just took off."
The practice of lane splitting is illegal in Tennessee and can bring a hefty fine for reckless driving.
Of course, violators like this guy could lose much more cash.
"He obviously doesn't value his life very much," said Phyliss Williams with the Tennessee Regional Safety Council. She has spent three decades teaching driver safety and said such stunts have resulted in plenty of deaths.
And, it's maddening for other drivers since there's very little you can do, but simply be on alert.
"You are out there with people who don't know what they are doing."
And, that puts everyone's life at risk on the roads.
Whether motorcycles or cars, police said the problem is getting worse and when they catch you they'll prosecute.
Williams said there are many reasons for such behavior on the roads.
One she laments is the demise of driver's education in schools.
Do you want to talk about this issue? Email me at nick.beres@newschannel5.com.
It’s a sad reality that area animal shelters and non-profit rescue organizations face constant overcrowding -- with so many dogs, cats and other animals waiting for a forever home. Jason Lamb reports here that Metro leaders are working with those groups – including Critter Cavalry – to find solutions. I’ve fostered a dog from Critter Cavalry, so I understand the need is great. And I found my pup Domino through another local group, Proverbs Animal Rescue. Ultimately, it starts with all of us. Getting more dogs and cats spayed or neutered can help control the pet population – and ease the burden.
-Rhori Johnston
