Motorcycle laws differ by state, and it is the responsibility of each rider to be aware of the rules in the states where they are riding. In comparison to other states, California has tougher motorcycle rules. At Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas, we make it a point to remain current on these regulations so that we can effectively defend our clients who have been involved in motorcycle accidents.
Continue reading to learn about California’s fundamental motorbike regulations. If you have been in an accident, please call us immediately at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation. We are here to assist you in determining the best course of action following an accident.
You are obliged to wear specific safety equipment
As previously said, California has some of the toughest motorcycle rules in the country, which also applies to safety gear. These regulations were enacted to help minimize the frequency of motorcycle accidents as well as the severity of those that do occur. The difference between a deadly accident and a fractured bone can be determined by the safety equipment you wear.
Anyone riding a motorbike in California is required to wear a helmet at all times, including passengers. Helmet speakers are permitted, however they must only contain one earphone in order for the driver to have one ear free. Daytime headlights are required on all motorcycles built after 1979. While eye protection is not required by law, it is highly recommended for reducing the risk of injury in the event of an accident.
Certain requirements must be met by your motorcycle
The state has also enacted legislation governing the construction and outfitting of bicycles. When the driver is seated on the motorbike, the handlebars cannot be more than six inches over his or her shoulders, according to the legislation. A muffler is required on every motorbike. They are not allowed to use a cutout, bypass, or any other comparable device.
If a biker is transporting a passenger, the passenger must not only wear a helmet, but the bike must also have a passenger seat and footrest. Turn signals are required on every motorbike. Radar detectors are legal on motorcycles, and there are no limitations. To ride a motorbike, you must have a motorcycle license, and every bike is subject to random safety checks.
Insurance requirements for motorcycles
Bikers must also carry a certain level of insurance. This includes $5,000 for property damage and $15,000 for physical harm each person wounded in a motorbike accident, for a total of at least $30,000 for all injured parties.
You may be unable to collect a personal injury award if you do not follow these laws
If a cyclist breaks these guidelines and is involved in an accident, their potential damages may be lowered. This is because the insurance company might claim that if the rider had obeyed the rules, the accident would not have occurred or the expenses would not have been the same. For example, if they were not wearing a helmet and had substantial brain injury, it would very certainly be claimed that the brain damage was caused by the lack of a helmet rather than the accident itself.
Anyone involved in a motorcycle accident should engage with a personal injury attorney for this and other reasons. For a free legal consultation, call Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 right now.
