Are You a Motorcycle Owner? Some Requirements by The State to Keep You Safe
Motorcycles are not only enjoyable but also a practical and economical transportation method. However, it is sad that most motorcycle wrecks cause multiple injuries and deaths of thousands of people around the country. Even the most experienced rider is often at the mercy of other motorists. Victims of motorcycle accidents sustain the most severe injuries when compared to other motor vehicle accidents. This is the reason why all states have motorcycle accident law. These are state and federal laws that are specified for only motorcycle accidents.
Although motorcycle riders should follow the same rules as other road users, they are subjected to other requirements such as special licensing, safety equipment, and additional driving procedures among others.
Special Licensing
To legally operate a motorcycle in many states, one is required to have a separate endorsement from the driver's license. Most motorcyclists are not aware of this requirement and drive their motorcycles everyday illegally. However, when they are involved in an accident, they are in most cases cited as partially being at fault even if the crash was caused by the other party. This happens because they operate their motorcycles without proper licensing.
Safety Equipment
Most jurisdictions have some mandatory requirements on unique safety equipment specified for motorcyclists. For instance, in all states, it is compulsory to wear helmets or eye protection gears. In other states, riders are required to wear reflective vests, armored clothing, or certain types of footwear. Both the state and federal laws emphasize on the use of specific lights on a motorcycle in case it is being used on the road. This include brake lights, turn signals, and a headlight that is always on when on the road. When a motorcyclist fails to comply with the state and federal requirements, he or she is exposed to physical dangers and can also be liable in case of an accident.
Additional Liability
More motorcycle accident regulations have been put in place recently to increase penalties against other motorists who are involved in accidents with motorcyclists. These laws are meant to make other drivers aware of motorcyclists and try as much as possible to prevent accidents. In some other instances, a few states have enacted laws that limit the amount a motorcyclist can claim after a motorcycle accident. This is because riders are aware that they operate vehicles that are prone to accidents when compared to enclosed vehicles. Therefore, they should not hold others liable in case of a catastrophic accident.
