Traffic laws were enacted to protect you while you cruise along the open road on your motorcycle, sharing the highway with other motorists. Sadly, laws do not stop accidents. You can keep your bike in top shape, comply with every rule of the road, and wear protective gear, including a helmet, but still be injured because a careless motorist was not paying attention to the surrounding vehicles. Inverness motorcycle traffic laws attempt to mitigate collisions, but motorists and motorcyclists must commit to following them. A motorcycle accident attorney could help you file a claim when a driver does not follow the law.
Motorcycle Helmet Laws
Inverness traffic regulations require motorcyclists younger than 21 to wear Department of Transportation-approved protective helmets that cover the entire head, with goggles or face shields. Motorcyclists 21 and older do not have to wear helmets, but the World Health Organization (WHO) advises against riding bareheaded because there is an increased risk of catastrophic and fatal injuries. Helmets are estimated to reduce deaths by 42 percent and catastrophic head, neck, and brain injuries by 69 percent.
Special License Plates for Motorcyclists Younger Than 21
Motorcyclists under 21 must secure a special license plate that alerts others, including law enforcement in Inverness, about the rider’s age. Because young drivers lack experience, the special license plate alerts law enforcement and other motorists to be more aware and careful around them.
Keeping a Motorcycle in Good Working Condition
Regulations in Inverness also mandate that motorcyclists maintain their bikes in good working condition to ensure they have a better chance of escaping a potential accident. Brakes must be functional, motorcycles must sport a horn, and the license plate must be securely attached so it is always visible.
Motorcyclists Lane Usage
Motorcyclists are permitted to occupy an entire lane on any highway or share it with another motorcyclist. This makes them more visible to other motorists and allows a pair of motorcyclists to look out for each other. Motorcyclists cannot pass a motorist in the same lane, and they cannot lane split, which means riding between the lanes. These actions can contribute to life-altering accidents that should be avoided.
Insurance Requirements
The law does not require motorcyclists in Inverness to purchase no-fault insurance like motorists. However, they must still purchase financial responsibility insurance that protects them if an accident occurs or if they cause any injuries or damages. Also, motorcyclists who choose not to wear helmets must carry at least $10,000 in medical insurance in case they are injured.
Motorcycle Traffic Laws Keep You Safe, but Accidents Can Happen
Our attorneys know the devastation motorcyclists face if a reckless motorist plows into them and causes horrific injuries. We hope this never happens to you, but if it does, our compassionate attorneys are ready to advocate for your right to the compensation you need to heal. We do not pass you off to a case manager like larger law firms do.
We fight for you as we would fight for a family member. We advocate on your behalf while you recover from your injuries. If you have followed Inverness motorcycle traffic laws but were injured by a negligent motorist, call us today.
