Wisconsin roads offer the scenic beauty necessary to enjoy motorcycling. Here, it’s just you, your bike, and the open road! However, motorcycling brings with it significant responsibility. Understanding and following the state’s motorcycle laws is crucial not only for staying safe but also for avoiding legal issues.
According to a prominent Wisconsin motorcycle accident attorney, motorcyclists are aware of these laws only on the surface level. This makes complying with the highly specific regulations quite difficult. An additional challenge comes up when litigating a motorcycle accident in court, as the opposition may argue that certain laws were not followed…
1. Only Federal Government Certified Motorcycles Can Travel on Highways
In Wisconsin, it is illegal to ride a motorcycle on highways unless it is certified by the federal government. This regulation ensures that motorcycles meet specific safety standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Motorcycles that fail to meet these criteria may lack essential safety features, such as adequate lighting or structural integrity, making them dangerous on high-speed roadways.
2. Motorcyclists Must Have Liability Insurance in Effect
Just like drivers of passenger vehicles, Wisconsin motorcyclists are required by law to have liability insurance. This type of coverage ensures that motorcyclists can pay for damages or injuries they may cause to others in an accident. The minimum liability insurance coverage in Wisconsin includes:
$25,000 for injury or death of one person
$50,000 for injury or death of more than one person
$10,000 for property damage
3. Motorcyclists Have the Same Rights as Any Other Vehicle on the Road
Motorcyclists are entitled to the same rights and privileges as drivers of cars and trucks. This means that motorcycles can occupy an entire traffic lane, and other vehicles are prohibited from encroaching on their space. Many drivers are unaware of this law, which can lead to dangerous situations on the road.
4. Two Motorcyclists Can Agree to Share the Same Lane
While motorcycles are entitled to a full lane, Wisconsin law also permits two motorcyclists to ride side by side in a single lane. This is often referred to as “lane sharing” or “lane splitting.” However, this is only allowed if both motorcyclists mutually agree to share the lane. This practice can be useful in certain traffic conditions or when riding in groups.
5. When on the Highway, a Motorcycle’s Headlight and Taillight Must Be Active
Wisconsin law mandates that motorcycles have their headlights and taillights turned on at all times when riding on highways. This regulation is designed to improve the visibility of motorcycles, which are often harder to see than larger vehicles, especially in low-light conditions.
6. Anyone Under the Age of 18 Must Wear a Helmet
In Wisconsin, all motorcyclists and passengers under the age of 18 are required to wear helmets when riding. Helmets must meet federal safety standards and provide adequate protection in the event of a crash. This law is in place to reduce the risk of head injuries, which are common in motorcycle accidents.
7. All Motorcyclists Must Wear Eye Protection
Every motorcyclist is required by law to wear some form of eye protection, such as goggles, a face shield, or protective glasses. The only exception is if the motorcycle is equipped with a windscreen that provides sufficient protection. Eye protection is essential for shielding riders from wind, debris, and insects, all of which can impair vision and lead to accidents.
These laws were designed to protect motorcyclists themselves. As such, it’s best to take note of these laws and implement them in all your biking adventures. Firstly, following these laws keeps you safe. Secondly, in the event of an unfortunate accident, you will have a strong defense in court! Overall – follow these laws and ensure a safe biking experience!
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