12 Important Legal Rights Every Motorcyclist Needs to Know in 2024

Few things are as exciting and invigorating as riding a motorcycle. Cruising through the streets, feeling the wind blow against you, revving the engine and seeing how far you can push your bike - it all adds up to a very fun, enjoyable, and memorable time. 

There are many things you need to remember when you are riding a motorcycle, including safety. Safety should always come first, not just for you but for anyone riding with you and other people on the road. 

But you also need to remember that you have a slew of legal rights as a motorcycle rider, especially in this day and age. 

Here are some of the most important ones to remember in this year and in the years to come. 

Right To Safe Roads

In case a motorcycle accident is caused by road problems and issues like debris, potholes, or construction zones, riders are able to try and get compensation from the government entity or the contractor who they deem at fault. 

These days, there has been an increase in awareness of road safety for motorcyclists, however, riders should still make note of dangers and notify authorities of any unsafe situations. If other people don’t respect and share the road with motorcyclists, bad things await, up to and including a wrongful death claim after a fatal motorcycle accident. 

Motorcyclists should receive the same level of safety measures in construction zones as all other vehicle types, such as appropriate signage, well-marked alternate routes, and a secure path.

Full Use Of Traffic Lane

Motorcycle riders are entitled to the same use of a full lane as any other type of motor vehicle. Cars are not allowed to pressure or push motorcyclists into riding close to the lane's edge.

Lane splitting, where motorcyclists ride between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic, is allowed in many states but it’s also prohibited in others. In 2024, this law still applies only to certain states, so it's crucial to understand the regulations in your area.

Helmets

Several states mandate helmets for all motorcyclists, while others only require them for riders who are below a certain age. To make sure you are doing everything correctly, you need to review all laws specific to your state so you can prevent any legal penalties.

Compensation In A Crash

If you are in an accident that was the fault of someone else you can try to get payment for all of the medical costs, lost income, emotional problems, and more. Motorcyclists are often at a higher risk for these things, which makes it essential to be aware of your right to compensation.

Insurance Requirements

Nearly every state mandates that motorcyclists must have a minimum amount of liability insurance coverage. You need to make sure that you meet the minimum coverage requirements in your state as they may differ from location to location. 

For example, some states have extra criteria that you must meet and other regions are more lax.

Traffic Signal Rights

Certain states have laws that are known as "dead red" ones, which permit motorcyclists to go through a red light if the signal does not detect the motorcycle due to its size. 

While that may sound helpful, you need to make sure your state has that rule and you aren’t just assuming that it does. You need to follow the rule of law as closely as possible when you’re on your motorcycle.

Freedom From Discrimination

Businesses are not allowed to show any kind of bias against motorcycle riders because of the type of vehicle they have. 

Therefore, if you cannot get service or access to a location because you are a motorcyclist, you have the ability to file a legal case against them and protect your rights.

Modifications

Although motorcyclists have the ability to customize their motorcycles, some alterations may be controlled by state regulations. In many areas, strict enforcement is now being followed for things like emissions standards, noise limits, and lighting restrictions.

Safety Gears

Although some states demand very specific safety equipment such as goggles or shoes, motorcyclists often have the freedom to choose their own protective gear. 

No-Fault Insurance Laws

In states with no-fault insurance laws, your own insurance company has to pay for your medical bills and damages, regardless of fault for the accident. Motorcyclists in these states need to be aware of their plans, as it could be very different from car insurance coverage and might require more policies and extra coverage.

Unfair Tickets

Motorcyclists are allowed to fight what they consider unjust tickets and citations in court, whether they are for speeding, reckless driving, or other violations. Thankfully these days, dashcams or helmet cams can be used as evidence to challenge these rulings.

Group Rides

During group rides, it is necessary for motorcyclists to know all of the regulations related to riding together. While most states allow motorcycles to ride side by side in one lane, others distribute citations for what they consider dangerous group riding.

Conclusion

As you can see, all motorcyclists have legal rights that can not be infringed upon. And if you like to ride, you need to make sure you are educated before you head out on the road. By knowing your rights and protections, you can ensure your next ride is safe in a number of ways. 

By ML staff. Image courtesy of Pexels.