Motorcycle Safety Laws in Akron, Ohio
Looking forward to taking your motorcycle out on the streets of Akron, Ohio? Nothing compares to the freedom you get when riding a motorcycle, but it does present some risks. According to the Ohio State Patrol, there were almost 19,000 motorcycle crashes in the state during a recent five-year period. How can you stay safe when you’re riding your motorcycle? One way to protect yourself is to follow Ohio’s motorcycle safety laws.
Ohio Motorcycle Licensing Requirements
According to Ohio motorcycle laws, you must have a motorcycle endorsement on your driver’s license or a Temporary Instruction Permit Identification Card (TIPIC) to operate a motorcycle. This is how to get a TIPIC under Ohio law:
- Be at least 15 years and six months old
- Go to the driver exam station and take a vision test and a motorcycle knowledge test
- Once you’ve passed both tests, go to a deputy registrar license agency and purchase your TIPIC
Your TIPIC is valid for one year but comes with some restrictions. Ohio motorcycle permit restrictions include:
- You must carry your permit with you every time you ride
- You can only ride in daylight
- You cannot carry passengers
- You cannot ride on interstates or congested roads
- You must wear protective eyewear and a helmet
To get an Ohio motorcycle license if you are over 18, schedule an Ohio motorcycle skills test when ready. If you’re under 18, you must:
- Hold a TIPIC for at least six months
- Complete a driver’s education course
- Complete 50 hours of driving with 10 hours of night driving
- Complete a motorcycle safety course before taking your skills test
Helmet and Protective Gear Laws
What are the motorcycle helmet laws in Ohio? Helmet and protective gear laws in Ohio include:
- You must wear a helmet if you’re under 18
- You must wear a helmet for your first year on a motorcycle
- You must wear eye protection unless your helmet has a face shield
Motorcycle Equipment Requirements
Required motorcycle equipment in Ohio includes:
- Turn signals
- At least one brake
- A red taillight
- At least one headlight with high beams and low beams
- Handlebars that rise no higher than your shoulders
- A muffler, horn, and rearview mirror
Traffic and Road Rules for Motorcyclists
Ohio traffic and road rules for motorcyclists include:
- No more than two motorcycles may ride side by side in a lane
- Operators must face forward and ride on a permanent seat
- Motorcyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers of other motor vehicles
- Lane splitting in Ohio is not allowed
Ohio motorcycle passenger laws require all passengers to sit in firmly attached seats, face forward, and have one leg on either side.
Safety Tips for Akron Motorcycle Riders
Here are some general safety tips to help you ride your motorcycle safely in Akron, Ohio:
- Follow all traffic rules
- Drive defensively
- Check your bike regularly to make sure it’s road-worthy
- Wear a helmet and other protective gear
- Use reflective and headlights
- Stay out of blind spots where nearby drivers might not be able to see you
Contact Our Akron Motorcycle Accident Lawyers for Help
Amourgis & Associates, Attorneys at Law, is a law firm helping motorcycle accident victims in Akron, Ohio, and other communities statewide. When you need help recovering from a motorcycle accident and covering your medical expenses, we can help you get your life back on track with straight talk about your legal options. Contact our Akron motorcycle accident attorneys today for a free consultation to discuss your case.
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At Amourgis & Associates, Attorneys at Law, we only represent consumers. We fight for regular people who have been seriously hurt in accidents. We fight for people who are being crushed by overwhelming debt and need a fresh start. We fight for individuals and families. Never businesses. Never insurance companies. We are loyal to the consumer.
