=Millions of people across the globe own motorcycles. In the United States alone, the Department of Transportation reported more than 8 million registered motorcycles in 2011. Most motorcycle riders know the common rules that show up on the exams, but they aren’t aware of the less common rules. Here are five motorcycle laws that all California riders should know:
- Riders Can Listen to Music in California
You’ll be happy to know that you can listen to music while you are riding your motorcycle in the State of California. However, you can only cover one ear with a headphone, or use one earbud. You must leave one ear unencumbered so that you can hear other vehicles, or other drivers honking. The law is for your protection and the protection of other people on the road.
- Daytime Headlights are Required
As a California motorcycle rider, you must be mindful of the daytime headlight ordinances. Daytime headlights are required, not recommended. They are not an optional item that you can choose to ignore, as you will receive a ticket if you do not obey the command.
- Your Parking Must Be Angled
Many riders are unaware that by law, motorcycles cannot simply be parallel parked. When a motorcycle is parked adjacent to a curb, the back wheel must be against the curb. Parking incorrectly is an easy way to get a ticket, or even towed.
- It’s Not Okay to Weave
Weaving, or moving in and out of lanes, is a traffic violation for motorcyclists in the state of California. Furthermore, it may cause the police to evaluate you for drunk driving. If they find that your blood alcohol level is more than .08 percent, they will serve you a ticket for DUI. If they do not find that you have alcohol in your system, you will still receive a citation for your uncontrolled weaving. This type of riding can be dangerous for motorcyclists and other cars on the road. As a rider, you should remember that cars may not see you as easily as you see them.
- High H-Bars Have Limits
Many motorcyclists love to spruce their motorcycles up and make them unique. One of the things that many riders like to do is raise their handle bars. Unfortunately, California laws restrict the handlebar height to no more than 6 inches above the shoulders.
Lane Splitting Is Under Review
Although it’s not illegal, lane splitting and driving in between two cars is frowned upon. However, it may become a permitted action soon. Currently, the State of California is working on legislation to make lane splitting legal. Some stipulations will be in place, of course.
If you are one of the millions of American motorcycle riders, you may already know how important it can be to your safety to adhere to traffic laws. Despite your adherence to laws and safety rules, the negligence of other drivers is always a risk. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact a motorcycle accident attorney today for a consultation. An attorney may help you protect your finances, your freedom and your integrity.=