Motorcycle Laws & Regulations: What Every Rider Should Know

Riding a motorcycle can be described as a feeling of freedom with the possibility of being around something new to be explored and experienced. But along with freedom comes responsibility. Motorcycle laws & regulations are intended to increase safety of the riders and other road users and the passengers. Regardless of whether you have had long years of experience riding motor cycles or you are a newbie; it is important to familiarize yourself with the requirements of the law in order to ensure that you cycle safely and avoid paying fines.

Motor cycles are less visible with comparatively less protection than that of motor vehicles and/or trucks. Therefore, by this, the motorcyclist is placed at a greater risk of accidents. Laws and regulations will minimize these risks by simply guiding the motor cyclists on how they should ride, supply protective clothing, and present motorcycles in their best form.

Key Areas of Motorcycle Law

1. Licensing Requirements

In the majority of jurisdictions, a regular driver license is not sufficient to ride a motorcycle, and extra motorcycle-related license or endorsement is required. This normally includes successfully passing a written test of knowledge and a riding skills test. In some locations there are motorcycle safety courses which, upon completion, can waive the skills exam and even earn insurance discounts.

2. Helmet Laws

Laws vary greatly by country and individual state regarding the use of helmets. In other states they have partial helmet laws which means all riders must have a helmet on but the passenger does not have to. In other jurisdictions, there are partial laws, only targeting riders that are not yet of a certain age, or are uninsured. Helmet is a sure way to protect the head and save life regardless of the local regulations.

3. Equipment Standards

There are equipment standards that motorcycles must follow in order to be considered as road-legal. There are common requirements:

• Functional headlight, tail lights and brake lights
• Rearview mirrors
• Working turn signals
• Good exhaust systems that are noise and emission agricultural standards
• Readable and unobscured license plate that is fastened securely

All motorcycles not meeting these standards may be ticketed and/or impounded.

4. Lane Usage/Lane Splitting

Lane splitting is a hot-debatable issue because it is controversial. In some states (such as California) it is legal but in others it is not clear and in others it is not permitted. Even where it has been legalized, riders have to know the law governing their specific jurisdiction and exercise caution.

Most laws also do not allow the use of more than two bikes/motorcycles in a single lane except when the lane is designed that way.

5. Insurance Requirements

Motorcyclists are usually obliged to have minimum liability cover, like the car drivers. This will cover bodily injury and property damages. Special needs insurance may be mandatory in some places as well. Insurance requirements also may vary, so be sure to check the laws of your area.

6. Passenger Rules

Riding with a passenger on a motorbike is acceptable in many jurisdictions most especially in cases whereby the motorbike has a specified passenger seat and foot pegs. Many jurisdictions require their passengers to wear helmets, even where the rider is not obliged. In some jurisdictions the age of passengers is limited because of safety issues.

7. The Alcohol and Drug Laws

Just like other car drivers, motorcyclists are subject to the DUI (driving under the influence) laws. Driving with alcohol or drugs in the body may mean suspension of the license, penalties, and even imprisonment. The motorcycle riding being more risky is impaired and highly fined.

Conclusion

Motorcycle laws and regulations are not mere bureaucratic red tapes but it is there to save lives and to educate about being responsible riders. When riders learn and obey these laws, not only do they evade the legal issue, but also greatly decrease chances of injury. One of the most effective ways of ensuring a happy and safe ride is to remain well-informed; be it prior knowledge on how to get a license, adhering to traffic regulations and of course sporting the appropriate gear.

The actual laws surrounding motorcycling in your local area should always be consulted before you ride out. What is legal in one state or country could be illegal in another and ignorance of the law will not save you.