Did you know that May is motorcycle safety awareness month? No matter if you have a bike or are simply sharing the road with motorcyclists, you should realize there are steps you can take to improve the safety of every driver.

Boston Motorcycle Laws

Whether you are a motorcyclist, or you just share the road with Boston’s other motorcyclists, it can be helpful to refresh on some of the local laws regarding motorcycles. Here are a few important laws to know:

  • You must be at least 16.5 years of age to obtain a Class M motorcycle license.
  • All motorcyclists must wear a Department of Transportation (DOT)-approved helmet.
  • You must have a motorcycle license or special endorsement on your driver’s license to use a motorcycle.
  • A motorcycle’s handlebars cannot exceed the drivers’ shoulder height.
  • Lane splitting is illegal, which refers to more than one motorcyclist sharing a lane on the road.
  • Motorcyclists must ensure that certain parts, including the horn, mirrors, fender, and muffler, are in good working condition.
  • A full-face shield is recommended to protect the face.
  • The body must be in an approved manner, with the feet on the pedals, when navigating the road.

These are just a few of the state’s laws regarding motorcycles. Motorcyclists are also subject to the same rules of the road as motor vehicle drivers.

Tips to Prevent a Motorcycle Accident

It is a must that everybody shares the road in a responsible manner. With so many types of vehicles on the road at any given time – including cars, motorcycles, trucks, and buses – all drivers should understand the importance of sharing the road.

Do you ride? If you have a motorcycle, be sure to wear a helmet at all times. This will protect your head in the event of an accident, which could be the difference between serious injury and walking away relatively unharmed. Other tips that you can use to prevent a motorcycle accident include:

  • Avoid distractions: Whether you are driving a vehicle or a motorcycle, it is important to avoid distractions at all times.
  • Know when to leave the motorcycle at home: Some roads can be more dangerous to motorcyclists, including in winter weather conditions.
  • Learn on easier roads: Until you have more experience driving a motorcycle, it can be helpful to stick to easier, neighborhood roads.
  • Keep up with maintenance: Preventative maintenance ensures that your motorcycle is in good working condition. Keep up with tire and brake maintenance especially.

Because motorcyclists often experience more severe injuries when in an accident, it is crucial to stay alert on the road at all times. You may need to respond to a vehicle that doesn’t notice you.

Were you Involved in a Motorcycle Accident?

If you were recently involved in a motorcycle accident due to the negligence of another driver, you may be able to file a lawsuit as a means of collecting compensation for your injuries and other damages.

For many years, we have been protecting the rights of motorcyclists. Contact us to discuss your accident in greater detail.