Sacramento Motorcycle Rider Laws
Motorcycle riding is a popular sport in California because of its gorgeous scenery and many open roads. However, accidents involving motorcyclists are common. Learning about motorcycle rider laws in the state that can keep a rider safe is important.
Although motorcycles are a lot more maneuverable than motor vehicles, they are also more dangerous due to the vulnerability of the rider. Because the rules for motorcycle riding change often, keeping up is important not only to be safe but to obey the law. If you are injured by the negligence of another motorist or entity, you can place a claim to recover compensation.
At Least Minimal Insurance Is Required to Be a Motorcycle Rider in California
A motorcycle rider knows they have to register their vehicles with the California Department of Motor Vehicles. Having insurance is a must because otherwise, you can’t get licensed. The minimum coverage is $5,000 property damage, $15,000 in bodily injury, and $30,000 if multiple people suffer injuries in a collision that is your fault. You can lose your license to ride your motorcycle for a minimum of a year if you are uninsured. You also cannot claim compensation, even if you were in an accident that wasn’t your fault.
You Have to Wear a Helmet
California law requires all motorcyclists to wear a helmet okayed by the U.S. Department of Transportation. It must also have a DOT insignia on the back and has to fit properly. Note that you are not allowed to take your helmet off while in traffic to make adjustments, even if you are stopped at a light. The fine for not wearing one can be as much as $250. Because helmets have been proven to reduce the risk of traumatic brain injuries and facial lacerations in an accident, it would be a good idea for a motorcycle rider to wear one even if it wasn’t required.
Riding With a Passenger
Those who transport a passenger on their motorcycle have to have a bike with a seat and securely fastened footholds. Passengers are not allowed to remove their feet from those footrests if the bike is moving and must also be helmeted. Although there is no age restriction, if the passenger’s feet cannot reach the footrests, it is probably illegal for them to be riding with you.
Licensing Laws for Riders Under 21
A motorcycle rider who is a minor has to be between 15 ½ and 17 ½ to apply for a learner’s permit for a motorcycle. They cannot ride on freeways, travel at night or transport another passenger. Learner’s permits are good for a year, but riders under 21 must use them for a minimum of six months before applying for a license as well as take the motorcycle safety training course.
Mufflers Are Required on California Motorcycles
California motorcycles cannot have noise coming from their exhaust pipes of more than 80 dbA. If the bike was made before 1970, the noise it emits cannot be above 92 dbA. Above that and the rider may be ticketed by police.
Use Caution When Lane Splitting
While lane splitting is allowed in California for a motorcycle rider, using caution is obviously necessary. Riders should not go any faster than 10 mph above the rest of the traffic and never above 30 mph. Attempting lane splitting when there are a lot of big commercial trucks in the area is a bad idea because the drivers cannot clearly see you. In addition, stay alert to drivers changing lanes because you may be in their blind spot.
Sacramento Motorcycle Accident Attorney
I am Ed Smith, a Sacramento motorcycle accident attorney. Being alert and following the law are ways to stay safe when riding your motorcycle. However, accidents do sometimes happen out of your control and can leave you with serious injuries. If a negligent driver was the cause, we have free and friendly advice to offer on whether you can file a claim to recover compensation. Contact our injury lawyers at (916) 921-6400. You can also reach us at (800) 404-5400 or by sending us a message online.
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Photo attribution: Image by Albrecht Fietz from Pixabay
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