A motorcycle ride on an open California highway can provide a feeling of freedom and exhilaration. Motorcycle riders can feel as though they are the owners of the road. However, they must follow the same rules for cars and trucks.
Motorcyclists must also adhere to laws that apply to motorcycle riding. These laws don’t take the joy out of riding a motorcycle. These laws are intended to protect motorcyclists as well as other road users. These laws will help to reduce the chance of motorcycle riders getting into a serious crash which could result in injuries or even death.
MOTORCYCLE LICENSING LAWS
You must be at least 16 to obtain a motorcycle licence. To do so, you will need to pass a written and vision test. Riders younger than 21 years old must complete the California Highway Patrol Basic Rider Course. Riders over 21 years old should also complete the course. However, they can opt to take a skills test to be exempted from this requirement.
Before applying for a motorcycle license, all riders must have a learner’s permit. A permit must be valid for six months for riders under 18 years of age before they can apply to for a license. Riders who have a learner’s license are not allowed to:
- Night driving
- Driving on the freeway
- Transporting passengers
MOTORCYCLE SAFETY LAWS
- Both motorcycle riders and drivers in California must wear helmets at all times. They must also comply with the standards of the United States Department of Transportation. If the vehicle was built before 1978, a daytime headlight is required to increase visibility in traffic. Headlights must be installed on all motorcycles after sunset.
- The height of the handlebars must not exceed six inches from the driver’s shoulders when he is seated. Both the front and back need to have working turn signals. Mirrors are required for both the left and right. Footrests and seats must be provided for passengers riding. Riders can wear earplugs so long as they are able to hear sirens and horns.
LANE SPLITTING AND LANE SHARING
- When a motorcycle moves between two lanes of traffic, called lane splitting, it is considered to be a maneuvering technique. It is legal in California. Although it may seem dangerous, it keeps motorcycles from being stowed between cars.
- Lane sharing refers to when two vehicles travel side-by side in the same direction and the same lane. You can do it with two motorcycles, or a motorcycle and a car. You can do this on large roads with at least two lanes going in the same direction.
Motorcycle riders are more at risk of serious injuries in an accident than other types of vehicles. Motorcyclists must be aware of sudden movements by cars, and drivers who aggressively tailgate or attempt to cut off motorcycle riders.
Summarized from an article by Kuvara Law Firm.
