Ohio motorcycle laws are designed to promote safety for all drivers. A motorcycle accident in Ohio can result in significant property damage, severe injuries, and even death. After such a devastating experience, understanding Ohio motorcycle accident laws is essential to successfully navigating the situation moving forward.
Ohio Laws for Motorcycle Operators
Helmet laws in Ohio depend on the experience and age of the driver. Any driver who is under 18 is required to wear a helmet, and so are any of their passengers. Anyone with a temporary motorcycle permit is required to wear a helmet, and so are their passengers. Fully endorsed drivers over 18 are not legally required to wear a helmet, but wearing a helmet increases safety.
If you are over 18 and have a full license, you do not legally have to wear a helmet. In Ohio, failure to wear a helmet cannot impact the amount of compensation an individual receives when the court decides compensation for an accident.
If a driver is found operating a motorcycle without an endorsement or permit, the following penalties will apply:
- A first offense is an unclassified misdemeanor that carries a penalty of community service and a fine of up to $1,000
- A second offense is a misdemeanor that carries a penalty of a maximum of six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
Motorcycle drivers are required to have the minimum liability insurance required by the state. Ohio requires:
- Bodily injury or death liability in the amount of $50,000 per accident and $25,000 per person.
- Property damage liability in the amount of $25,000 per accident.
- Uninsured motorist coverage is recommended but not required in Ohio. However, drivers must opt out of coverage by providing their insurance carrier with a written waiver.
Ohio has specific traffic laws for motorcycle drivers. For example, it is illegal to ride between moving lanes of traffic – sometimes called lane splitting. A motorcycle driver must always keep the headlights on to increase visibility. The maximum number of motorcycles that may ride side-by-side in a single lane is two.
Additionally, motorcycle drivers must wear appropriate eye protection unless the motorcycle has a windscreen or windshield. There are also noise regulations that motorcycles must follow that include not exceeding 85 decibels when measured from 50 feet away.
Motorcycles are allowed to use the full traffic lane and have the same rights and responsibilities as any other driver. All laws that pertain to driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs also apply to motorcycle drivers.
Ohio Laws for Motorcycle Equipment
Ohio law also covers specific requirements for equipment on the motorcycle that include:
- A motorcycle must have a muffler, horn, and rearview mirror
- Motorcycle handlebars may not be higher than the driver’s shoulders
- A motorcycle is required to have no more than two headlights, with at least one headlight that has high and low beam settings
- At least one brake on the front or rear that may be hand or foot-operated
- The signals on the motorcycle must be manufactured after January 1, 1968
- One red taillight that is a brake or stop lamp
- The driver may only ride on a permanent seat
- Passengers may only ride on a firmly attached saddle or seat
- All motorcycles are required to have functioning brakes, headlights, mirrors, and an exhaust system that meets safety standards.
Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents can still happen even when a driver follows all rules and takes all safety precautions. All too often, cars are not watching for motorcycles, and adverse weather conditions can be more dangerous for motorcycle drivers. A motorcycle accident claim can be difficult to navigate on your own, and motorcycle accident laws can be hard to understand.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, the experienced attorneys at The Czack Hobbs Law Firm can help. We can handle your case while you focus on healing from your injuries. Our firm provides personalized and compassionate counsel that emphasizes a client-centered philosophy.
FAQs
What Happens if You Accidentally Hit a Motorcyclist?
Accidentally hitting a motorcyclist is a serious event, and you should immediately take certain steps. You should stop your vehicle, turn on your hazard lights, and check on the condition of the motorcycle driver. You should also call 911 to report the collision and request emergency medical services. In Independence, paramedic services are provided by the Independence Fire Department located at 6305 Selig Drive, Independence, Ohio 44131.
Does the Three Second Rule Apply to Motorcycles?
The three-second rule can apply to motorcycles, although sometimes the following distance should increase based on various factors to provide optimal safety. The three-second rule involves maintaining a safe distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. Motorcycles may require more time to stop safely than cars. Motorcycle drivers may need to adjust the amount of time depending on certain road conditions, such as slippery or wet roads, heavy traffic, and visibility.
Is Ohio a No-Fault State for Auto Accidents?
Ohio is not a no-fault state for auto accidents. Ohio uses an at-fault system for auto accidents. In an at-fault state, the driver at fault for the accident is financially responsible for damages sustained by the other driver. Ohio law requires drivers to maintain minimum liability insurance coverage to cover damages. Minimum liability amounts are $25,000 per person for bodily injury. $50,000 per accident for bodily injury and $25,000 per accident for property damage.
What Are the Motorcycle Laws in Ohio?
Ohio has several laws that apply to motorcycle drivers in Ohio. Motorcycle drivers must have a valid license plate and register their vehicle. They must wear appropriate eye protection, such as a face shield on a helmet, goggles, or eyeglasses, or a permanently attached windscreen or windshield on the motorcycle. A driver must carry the state-required minimum amount of liability insurance. If under 18 or during the first year of endorsement, a driver must wear a helmet.
Ohio Motorcycle Accident Attorney
If you were involved in a motorcycle accident, our experienced team can help you navigate the complexities of the Ohio legal system. The Czack Hobbs Law Firm has been fighting for motorcyclists’ rights for over 30 years. Our attorneys provide personalized representation and client-centered advocacy. Contact the office to learn how we can help.
