Did you know that motorcyclists are 27 times more likely to sustain a serious injury in a collision as compared to the passengers in a car, and 5 times more likely to die? There are some motorcycle laws you should take into account before riding a motorcycle.
Which is why it is very important for a motorcyclist to be aware of and follow all the road rules so they can try their best to avoid potential accidents.
Motorcycle Laws
Although, generally speaking, motorcyclists are required to follow all the road rules, there are some additional rules that are specifically designed for motorcyclists. This is due to the fact that motorcycles are more likely to get into an accident than other vehicles.
These motorcycle laws or rules are:
Licensing
In most states, you can’t just ride a motorcycle if you have a driver’s license. These states require a separate endorsement on the license which legally allows the individual to operate a motorcycle. Most motorcylce-riders are unaware of this law and drive a motorcycle anyway on a daily basis, not realizing they are consistently breaking the law.
Problems arise if these people get into an accident. Not having the legal permission to drive a motorcycle means that the motorcycle-rider could be blamed for the accident, even if it was entirely the other vehicle’s fault. So research the laws of the state you are riding a motorcycle in, and go through the procedure to get legal approval if you don’t have it already.
Safety Gears
No matter which part of the world you are living in, the requirement for safety gears to ride a motorcycle are much more than any other vehicle around. Almost all states require one to wear a helmet at all times when on a motorcycle. Even the few who don’t mandate a helmet require you to wear some sort of eye-protection.
Some states also require motorcycle riders to wear specific types of footwear, padded or armored clothing, or reflective vests. So again, it would be a good idea to look up the laws in your state to get better information on what you need to wear.
Motorcycle Equipment
It is a requirement of both state and federal laws that certain lights be used on motorcycles at all times. These include brake lights, turn signals and headlights that should always be on. There are a few steps you can take to be sure that your equipment is in perfect condition.
Before you mount the motorcycle:
- Check the tires for any cracks or bulges, or any signs of wear in the treads.
- Look for any signs of gas or oil leaks under the motorcycle.
- Make sure that the lights are functioning; test for high and low beams.
- The levels of Hydraulic and Coolant fluids should be checked weekly.
After you’ve mounted the motorcycle:
- Make sure the clutch and throttle are working smoothly.
- Clean and adjust all the mirrors; this will ensure sharp viewing.
- Test the front and rear brakes.
- Test the horns.
It is crucial that you follow these if you ride a motorcycle on a regular basis.
Motorcycle Accident Lawyer | Attorney Javier Marcos
Attorney Javier Marcos is an accident lawyer in Houston that speaks Spanish. He can help you in your motorcycle accident case 24 hours a day. Offering free consultation, we go to you wherever you are, you can call 24 hours a day, visit the doctor at no cost, speak personally with the lawyer and the best customer service. Call now at 713-999-4444.
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