You have to first familiarize yourself with North Carolina’s motorcycle rules if you intend to ride a motorcycle here. While motorbikes follow the same traffic rules as other vehicles, the state specifically targets and regulates motorcyclists.
North Carolina mandates helmet wear among all motorcyclists, including drivers and passengers. This likewise holds true for those who operate mopeds. Helmets have to be tightly fastened and correspond with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 218, which calls for protective foam, a DOT sticker, and a label with critical information including the manufacturer name and helmet specs. Riding without a conforming helmet or with a novelty helmet could cause legal repercussions and fines, as well as a higher chance of major harm should an accident occur. In case an accident happens, learn more about Ward Black Law so they can heed your legal needs.
Like all other vehicles, motorcyclists have to follow the same overall traffic laws, including right-of-way restrictions, signal turning, and speed limit sign adherence. Still, North Carolina has rules tailored especially for motorcyclists and mopeds. For example, motorcycles and mopeds cannot carry more commuters than their capacity allows, and there is no minimum passenger age. If riders so like, they are free to drive two vehicles in one lane and use the whole width of the lane. High-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes are open for use by motorcycles carrying two or more passengers in congested traffic.
Should the signal remain unaltered during a full stop and a three-minute waiting period and no other vehicles or pedestrians are involved, motorcyclists may proceed through a red light. North Carolina law does not specifically regulate lane-splitting—that is, riding between traffic lanes. Although lane splitting is not officially allowed or outlawed, motorcyclists who do may find legal consequences under more general motorbike safety rules.
Drivers of motorcycles must first get a motorcycle learner’s permit or endorsement before riding legally in North Carolina. Applicators for a learner’s permit must pass a vision and knowledge test in addition to having a current driver’s license. Riders under the age of eighteen have to get parental permission and finish a recognized motorcycle safety course satisfactorily. The permission lasts for twelve months and can be renewed once. Drivers must first obtain a regular or commercial driver’s license and then pass both a knowledge and practical skills test in order to earn a complete motorcycle endorsement. Moped riders have to be at least 16 years old and fulfill helmet guidelines; they are not obliged to get a separate motorbike license.
Before they might be regarded as street legal in North Carolina, motorcycles had to satisfy particular equipment requirements. If transporting passengers, at least one rearview mirror, a visible license plate, functional headlights and taillights, a rear brake light, a horn, and foot pegs or footrests are among the required tools. An effective exhaust system is another. Safety gear, including goggles, gloves, protective clothing, and sturdy footwear, is advised even if it is not required by law.
Motorcycles have to be registered and insured; normally, registration is done personally at facilities related to vehicle and license plate renewal. Every year, motorcycles have to be reregistered, and the registration process calls for the submission of several pieces of paperwork and payments. For injury to one individual, the minimum insurance coverage is $30,000; for numerous injuries, it is $60,000; and for property damage, it is $25,000.
In North Carolina, motorcycles also have to pass annual safety inspections covering a broad spectrum of parts, including brakes, tires, lights, steering mechanisms, mirrors, and exhaust systems. Even if one follows these rules and safety advice, the recklessness of other drivers could cause mishaps. Should you be in a North Carolina motorcycle accident, you should immediately seek legal advice.
