Riding a motorcycle can transform even the most uninteresting journey into an adventure.
For many Americans, motorcycling is the preferred mode of transportation. Thanks to their maneuverability, motorcycles rarely get caught in traffic. However, the thrills and excitement of riding a motorcycle come with inherent risks.
Motorcycles and those who ride them often face discrimination on Philadelphia roads.
Motorcycle riders are twenty-eight times more likely to suffer fatal injuries compared to car occupants. A recent report from the National Transportation Safety Board suggests that sixty-four percent of motorcycle-related accidents in the country were caused by the negligent act of another vehicle driver and not due to the fault of a motorcyclist.
The most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Philadelphia include:
- Speeding
- Alcohol and drug misuse
- Distracted driving
- Open car doors
- Mechanical issues
- Reckless driving or road rage
- Failure of the motorcyclist to wear a helmet
- Lane switching or lane splitting
- Dangerous road conditions
- Motorcycle defects
It’s wise to consult a Philadelphia Motorcycle Accident Lawyer immediately after a motorcycle accident, especially if you suffer injuries or there is significant damage to your motorcycle.
The Pennsylvania Laws For Motorcyclists
There has been a steady increase in motorcycle accident-related fatalities and severe injuries. Motorcycle riders need to observe and obey motorcycle laws strictly.
Motorcyclists have the same responsibilities and rights as other road users on Philadelphia roads.
There are more than 850,000 licensed motorcyclists in Pennsylvania.
PennDOT’s Live Free Ride Alive Program aims to reduce the number of motorcycle crashes and fatalities on Pennsylvania’s roads.
In addition to a regular Pennsylvania driver’s license, motorcyclists in the state must have a valid motorcycle license. Pennsylvania law requires motorcyclists in the state to carry minimum liability insurance coverage. The minimum liability coverage includes:
- $15,000 for bodily injury per person
- $30,000 for bodily injury per accident (if multiple individuals suffer injuries)
- $5,000 for property damage
Wearing a helmet can significantly reduce the risk of head injuries in a motorcycle accident.
Pennsylvania’s motorcycle helmet law requires all riders under 21 years of age to wear a DOT-certified helmet while operating a motorcycle in the state.
Motorcycle helmets must have a Department of Transportation (DOT) sticker indicating approval by the DOT.
For motorcyclists over 21 with two years of riding experience or who have completed an approved motorcycle safety course, helmets are optional.
Penalties for breach of Pennsylvania’s Motorcycle Helmet Law include fines and other legal ramifications.
Motorcyclists who fail to wear a compliant helmet put their lives at risk and also jeopardize their chances of recovering compensation.
Pennsylvania law makes it mandatory for all motorcyclists to wear protective eyewear. Every motorcyclist and passenger must wear some form of protective eyewear.
Eye protection requirements for motorcyclists ensure riders’ eyes are protected from bug hits, flying debris, and wind gusts.
Pennsylvania law prohibits lane splitting. Philadelphia motorcyclists cannot engage in such conduct while weaving between cars in slow or stopped traffic.
Pennsylvania law requires all motorcycles to have turn signals and left or right side mirrors that provide clear rear visibility. Pennsylvania law requires every motorcycle to be equipped with a muffler to curb excessive noise from the motorcycle’s exhaust system.
Pennsylvania law requires motorcycles in the state to have proper seating for a passenger. Motorcycles must also have passenger footboards.
The law requires motorcyclists to ride within posted speed limits.
Violating Pennsylvania motorcycle laws can lead to penalties ranging from $35 to $5000 and more for offenses such as speeding, reckless driving, and DUI.
To learn more about Pennsylvania’s motorcycle rules and regulations, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). The PennDOT covers all the crucial rules, safety recommendations, and legal requirements for motorcyclists in the state in the Pennsylvania Motorcycle Operator Manual.
Contact A Specialized Motorcycle Accident Lawyer In Philadelphia
Motorcycle crashes are very distinct from car accidents. Lane-splitting rules and Helmet laws are in place to prevent motorcycle accidents. A specialized motorcycle accident lawyer knows these laws inside and out.
The stakes are high in motorcycle accidents. These accidents involve severe injuries that can cost victims hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical treatment.
Motorcycle accident injuries can put a victim out of work indefinitely. A compassionate Philadelphia Personal Injury Lawyer works closely with healthcare professionals to ensure clients obtain top-notch medical treatment and rehabilitation services.
A specialized attorney has extensive knowledge of Pennsylvania state laws governing motorcycle accidents and knows how to build a robust case for success. The attorney will file your claim accurately and negotiate tirelessly with the insurance company to ensure you receive fair and just compensation.
One significant advantage of working with a specialized lawyer is their thorough understanding of the challenges faced by motorcycle accident victims. Motorcycle riders often face social prejudice and bias. A Philadelphia Personal Injury Lawyer will put forth solid and persuasive legal arguments to put to rest any preconceived notions that the jury or judge may have against motorcyclists.
If you or a loved one have suffered injuries in a Philadelphia motorcycle accident, take immediate action to protect your legal rights. Contact a specialized motorcycle accident lawyer in Philadelphia for a free case evaluation.
