San Jose Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys
Vehicle Code Sections
If you're planning to operate a motorcycle in the state of California, you need to plan to play by the book - California's Vehicle Code, that is. Since California considers modes of transportation such as boats and motorcycles to be vehicles, they're covered under the same codes that apply to cars, trucks, and other motor vehicles. Here's a quick guide to sections of the California Vehicle Code (CVC) you can't afford to miss:
Licensing Requirements
If you qualify as a California resident (you have lived or intend to live in the state of California for a period longer than six months), you must obtain a California motorcycle license. Division 6 of the CVC covers licensing requirements; California's M1 license classification covers any motorized scooter or motorcycle with attached motor, while an M2 license must be obtained for mopeds, motorized bikes, and/or scooters. Every motorcycle operator must obtain a learner's permit before getting a Class M license, regardless of age. And every operator must take and pass a written and skills test before legally driving a bike.
Helmets Required
Perhaps the most iron-clad rule in the California Vehicle Code that pertains to motorcycle riders is CVC Section 27803, which states that any and all drivers must wear an approved helmet when operating or riding a motorcycle. Unlike some other states, drivers and passengers over the age of 18 are not exempt from this code. Bottom line - wear a helmet.
Equipment
Think you can drive a bike that doesn't have headlights or that has an obscured license plate? Think again - CVC Sections 5200 and 5201 require that license plates are visible and properly affixed, while CVC Section 25650 states that at least one, but not more than two, headlamps are required on motorcycles at all times.
Insurance
Motorcycles are considered vehicles in California, and fall under Section 16020 of the CVC, which requires that all drivers carry proof of financial responsibility (also known as insurance) for their vehicle.
Lane-Splitting
Is it...or isn't it? Lane-splitting is specifically referred to in CVC Section 21714, but it is not explicitly prohibited for motorcyclists. However, split lanes with care - it's a risky move at best and can take drivers. Regardless of how religiously you follow the California Vehicle Code, accidents - and injuries - can and do happen. That's why it's important to know who to call when the biking gets tough. Dedicated to justice for injured bikers, the California motorcycle crash lawyers at Van Der Walde & Associates are here to help. Injured? Call today for your free consultation.
