Upper Marlboro Motorcycle Traffic Laws
Motorcycles are an exciting way to travel and have a vibrant culture for people as well. These enjoyable vehicles are subject to normal traffic laws and additional special rules as well. These include rules about how to ride and the equipment necessary to ride. Following these requirements will help avoid a ticket and can help if you are injured by a negligent driver.
Upper Marlboro motorcycle traffic laws are here to stay, so it is best to know and understand them. Our motorbike wreck attorneys at Gelb & Gelb, P.C. have put together this list to help you know some of the most important rules of the road.
Operating a Motorbike with a Valid License
State law requires motorcyclists to have a special Class M license in order to ride their bike. This is different from a license to operate a traditional passenger vehicle like a car. Operating a motorbike without a valid Class M license can result in suspension of the driving privileges, points on the driver’s record, fines, and the motorbike being towed.
Obtaining a valid license requires taking a motorcycle safety course for those under eighteen, take a knowledge test, obtain a learner’s permit and take a skills test. For those who complete and pass a safety course, the remaining requirements are not required. Roger Gelb, a well-versed motorcycle injury attorney in Upper Marlboro, could further help someone understand traffic laws and how to get a Class M license.
Operating a Motorcycle in Upper Marlboro
There are certain rules that a motorbike rider must follow. Maryland Statutes § 31-1302 requires all motorcyclists to:
- Ride a vehicle with a permanent seat attached to it
- Ride while straddling the seat, facing forward, and with one leg on each side
- Carry any other person on the motorcycle only if there is a seat permanently and firmly attached to the bike
- Not carry a package, article, or bundle that prevents both hands from being on the steering
- Not allow a person to ride in a way that interferes with the driver’s ability to operate the bike
These restrictions are meant to keep the riders and others on the road safe. Violations of these rules could impact a person’s safety and may come into play in a personal injury case.
Lane Splitting Rules for Motorcyclists
Bikers are legally permitted to the full use of the entire lane in Upper Marlboro. This means that other drivers must respect their use of the lane and not attempt to pass them within the lane. This is a common way that accidents occur and is considered negligence.
Motorcyclists are not allowed to overtake or pass cars or other motorbikes in the same lane. They may not operate between lanes of traffic or between adjacent rows of vehicles. However, riders are allowed to ride two abreast in a single lane so long as the other lane sharing rules are followed.
Minimum Motorbike Insurance Coverage Requirements
State law requires that a motorcyclist carry the minimum insurance coverages:
- $20,000 to cover bodily injury per person
- $40,000 to cover bodily injury per accident
- $10,000 to cover property damage per accident
These are minimum amounts, and riders may choose to use higher protections. Riders must carry this minimum insurance to ride legally with other traffic in Upper Marlboro.
Call an Attorney about Upper Marlboro Motorcycle Traffic Laws Now
By following Upper Marlboro motorcycle traffic laws, you can protect yourself and your rights to compensation in an crash. Failing to follow these rules could cause you to lose your license, face criminal penalties, and it may affect a judgment in a personal injury claim.
A dedicated attorney at Gelb & Gelb, P.C. is able to help you understand these laws and how they may impact your personal injury case. Call our office to let our legal team help you today.