Motorcycle riders must follow state traffic laws governing licensing, insurance, helmet use, and other safety requirements designed to protect them and other motorists on the road. Violations of these regulations may result in criminal charges, fines, and serious accidents caused by negligent driving. If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a motorcycle accident, understanding Spartanburg motorcycle traffic laws and speaking with a motorcycle accident attorney could help you better understand your legal rights.
Understanding State Motorcycle Laws
The law requires Spartanburg drivers of motorcycles to follow the same traffic rules as motorists in cars, trucks, and SUVs, and grants them the same rights to the road as other drivers. Motorcyclists are also expected to follow some additional state traffic laws under South Carolina Code § 56-5-3630, such as the following:
- Motorcyclists must sit only on a fixed, permanent seat and cannot carry passengers unless the bike has a designated passenger seat and footrests for the passenger
- Motorcycles must have headlights on at all times
- Motorcycles must have functioning rearview mirrors
- Motorcyclists must face forward in their seat, with one leg on each side of the motorcycle
- Motorcyclists cannot carry bags, packages, or other items that interfere with operating the bike
- Motorcyclists cannot operate more than two motorcycles side by side within the same lane
- Motorcyclists cannot overtake other vehicles within the same lane (also known as lane splitting)
Motorcycle owners are also expected to carry motorcycle insurance at all times when operating on roads. Minimum insurance coverage for motorcycle policies includes $25,000 for bodily injury or death (per person), $50,000 for bodily injury or death (per accident), $25,000 for property damage liability, and $25,000 for uninsured motorist coverage (per person).
Common Reasons for Motorcycle Accidents
When motorcyclists fail to follow traffic laws, dangerous accidents can occur. Common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
- Fatigued driving
- Distracted driving
- Traffic law violations
- Poor weather conditions
- Drunk or drug-impaired driving
- Dangerous road conditions and hazards
After any motorcycle accident in Spartanburg, it is essential to contact a skilled attorney familiar with local motorcycle traffic regulations and experienced in handling such cases. When a motorcyclist fails to follow traffic laws, they could face criminal charges, court-ordered fines, and civil liability in a personal injury lawsuit.
Are Motorcyclists Required to Wear Helmets?
Under state law, motorcycle riders below the age of 21 must wear helmets in compliance with South Carolina Code § 56-5-3660. The law requires helmets approved by the State Department of Public Safety, including chin straps and reflective materials, as well as goggles or face shields that meet department standards. Motorcyclists over age 21 are not legally required to wear helmets or related protective gear. However, failure to wear a helmet increases safety risks and may affect an injured rider’s personal injury claim under Spartanburg traffic rules for motorcycles. Safety experts encourage motorcyclists of all ages to wear helmets and protective gear at all times when on the road.
Contact a Spartanburg Lawyer to Learn More About Motorcycle Traffic Laws
If you suffered injuries in an accident because a motorcyclist failed to follow Spartanburg motorcycle traffic laws, you may be entitled to compensation. A dedicated attorney at KD Trial Lawyers could help you enforce your legal rights after a crash. Call our legal team today to learn more.
(864) 585-5100