If you are a motorcycle enthusiast, it is your job and duty to make sure that you and those around you stay safe on the road. As the driver of a motorcycle, you must take responsibility for the safety of your passengers and others on the road.
That is why learning the newest motorcycle laws is vital to ensure a safe journey when you are traveling on your motorcycle. Here, we will explore Arizona helmet law and some additional motorcycle laws that you need to be aware of when driving to ensure a safe trip. Read on!
Arizona Helmet Law
Motorcycle riders and passengers younger than 18 are legally required to wear a helmet in Arizona. Meanwhile, for riders and passengers aged 18 and above, wearing a helmet is not required. While it is not mandatory, all riders of any age are encouraged to wear a helmet and to have a Phoenix motorcycle accident attorney to contact in case of accidents.
Everyone who rides a motorcycle should wear a helmet that is approved by the Department of Transportation (DOT). Riders can choose between helmets with full faces and helmets with no faces. Full-face helmets have a shield for the eyes and cover the chin. Helmets that don’t cover the whole face don’t protect your eyes or chin.
Motorcycle Equipment Requirements
Based on Arizona motorcycle laws, a motorcycle must contain all the basic safety features to be on the streets legally. Motorcyclists must have secured and dedicated seats, with access to footrests and seat handlebars. Horns, front and rear brakes, and two mirrors must be present and working properly.
The law also requires motorcycles to have at least one rearview mirror, turn signal lights, a headlamp, and a tail light. If turn signal lights are unavailable, the motorcycle operator is required to use hand signals.
Meanwhile, mufflers must not produce noise that is beyond the maximum noise level. The original muffler or a noise reduction device must be used to maintain the noise level to its original level.
Other Motorcycle Laws
Beyond the DOT-approved helmets, Arizona has a few other motorcycle laws that all riders should be aware of. All motorcyclists must have a valid Class M endorsement on a regular driver’s license or motorcycle permit.
While riding your motorbike, you must have some kind of face protection like safety goggles, glasses, or transparent face shields. You must also carry proof of minimum liability insurance when driving a motorcycle.
Motorcycles have the right to use the whole lane. No one else on the road can get in the way of a motorcyclist’s right to use the whole lane except when on the same lane, side-by-side, with another motorcycle (two-abreast).
If a motorcycle can’t use the same lane that another car is in, it can’t pass that car. Lane splitting in moving traffic is illegal, but since September 2022 Arizona has allowed limited lane filtering: on roads with a speed limit of 45 mph or less, a motorcyclist may pass vehicles that are stopped in the same direction, at no more than 15 mph.
Be Aware of Arizona Helmet Law and Other Motorcycle Laws
The Arizona helmet law is an important safety measure all riders should be aware of and follow. In addition, the state also has several other motorcycle laws that should be carefully understood and obeyed.
If you’re an Arizona rider, double-check the laws and make sure you keep your safety and the safety of others first. For more information, contact your local MVD office or an accident lawyer today.
Don’t miss out on other valuable tips like this one! Explore the rest of our blog for more helpful insights!
