Lake County offers plenty of scenic routes for motorcycles. However, in order to operate a motorcycle safely, riders must adhere to traffic laws and requirements. Poor understanding of Lake County motorcycle traffic laws not only increases the risk of an accident but can leave injured riders unsure of who bears liability for a devastating collision.
If you have been in an accident that was not your fault, contact a dedicated motorcycle accident attorney for help pursuing compensation.
Helmet Laws
State law requires all motorcycle riders in Lake County under the age of 21 to wear a helmet. Riders over the age of 21, on the other hand, can choose whether to wear a helmet when they ride as long as they carry health insurance that will provide at least $10,000 of protection if they need medical treatment following a motorcycle accident.
Personal Injury Protection Insurance
Drivers may know that they need to carry personal injury protection insurance as part of their regular vehicle insurance. PIP coverage offers assistance with medical costs after an accident. However, Florida insurers do not offer that vital protection for motorcycle riders, which means that injured riders may need to pursue compensation through the liable driver’s insurance.
Licensing Requirements
In order to operate a motorcycle in Lake County, riders must have a motorcycle license, according to state law. This license is different than a license to operate a traditional motor vehicle, and riders may need to pursue additional training, including the Basic Rider course.
Riders need to be at least 16 to obtain a full motorcycle license and must not have received any traffic convictions for at least one year while holding a learner’s license. Riders over 18 do not have to hold a learner’s license before applying for a full motorcycle license.
Traffic Laws
Motorcycle riders in Lake County must follow all the same traffic laws as other vehicles. That includes adhering to speed limits, stopping at red lights, yielding right of way as required, and avoiding distraction while riding. Likewise, motorcycle riders have the same rights as other vehicles on the road, and other drivers should treat them appropriately. When considering Lake County motorcycle traffic laws, riders should carefully review the rules and regulations for all drivers.
Lane Splitting
Lane splitting occurs when a motorcycle drives between two lanes of traffic. Often, riders attempt to engage in lane splitting in slow-moving traffic or when traffic is stopped due to a wreck or other incident ahead. However, lane splitting is illegal in Lake County and across the state. The drivers of other vehicles should also allow motorcycles to have their own lane of traffic rather than attempting to encroach on the motorcycle’s lane.
Safety Requirements
According to Lake County and state traffic laws, motorcycles must be equipped with a mirror that allows the rider to see at least 200 feet behind them. In addition, motorcycle riders should have their headlights on at all times, even during the day. Headlights increase visibility and decrease the risk that another driver will miss the presence of the motorcycle.
Discuss Lake County Motorcycle Traffic Laws With a Lawyer
Following all Lake County motorcycle traffic laws not only decreases the risk of an accident but can also help protect you against serious consequences, including license loss or challenges with the law. If you suffered injuries in a motorcycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence on the road, including another driver or rider who failed to follow those laws, a lawyer could help you pursue compensation for the damages you sustained. Contact Largey Law Firm today for a free consultation.
