By Jeffrey Nadrich
Jeff Nadrich is a motorcycle injury attorney with Nadrich & Cohen, LLP. He has more than 25 years of experience successfully defending clients, and he continues to represent accident victims all across California.
Do you drive a motorcycle in California? If so, you may be among the millions of California riders at risk of citation, arrest or serious injury due to a lack of familiarity with the laws. The problem is that many riders are under the misguided assumption that motorcycle laws are basically identical to standard automotive laws. This misconception keeps motorcycle accident lawyers very busy, but it's based on faulty logic.
As gas prices rise or the overall economy takes a dive, many well-meaning individuals trade in their gas-guzzling vehicles for more cost-efficient motorcycles, without taking the time to learn the rules. If you ride your hog here in the Golden State, there are few things that you need to know, and some of these facts may surprise you.
Motorcycle 101 – Motorcycle Lawyer Weighs In
- Your standard C Class license does not permit you to operate a motorcycle in California. In order to be in compliance with the law, you will need to take the appropriate exams and acquire an M Class license from the Department of Motor Vehicles.
- All California motorcyclists are required to wear a helmet, as noted in California Vehicle Code Section 27803. Eye protection, however, is not required by law.
- Daytime headlight use is required for all motorcycles manufactured after 1978, according to California Vehicle Code Section 25650.5.
- You can be cited for improper handlebar height. That's right. Handlebars that rest 6 inches or more above your shoulders are prohibited by the State of California.
- Passengers of all ages are permitted to ride with you, but if you do carry passengers, he or she must have her own seat and her own footrest. If your motorcycle fails to provide these accommodations, you may be cited.
- California is the only state in the nation that allows lane splitting (the process of driving between two lanes to pass vehicles). But if you split lanes while traffic exceeds 30 miles per hour, you may be putting yourself in serious danger.
Avoiding Motorcycle Accidents
Of course, staying safe isn't just about following the laws. It's about using common sense. Always wear the appropriate gear to protect you in the even of a motorcycle accident, drive defensively, and avoid riding in hazardous weather conditions.
