Riding a motorcycle may feel like the ultimate expression of freedom. However, if you want to ride legally and not get a ticket, you must follow the motorcycle laws in Tampa, FL. The law assumes you will know these rules; any violations can be met with a citation and fine or other penalty if you are convicted.
There is another reason why you should know and follow the laws pertaining to motorcycles. Specifically, these laws can prevent you from suffering severe or fatal injuries in a Tampa, FL, motorcycle accident. Your experienced Tampa motorcycle accident lawyers at Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers know too well the harm that bikers can sustain in these collisions. Call us today at (813) 800-0810 to schedule a free consultation.
How Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help After A Motorcycle Accident In Tampa, FL
Being a law-abiding and careful motorcyclist can reduce, but not completely eliminate, your risk of injury in a motorcycle wreck. Negligent drivers in Tampa, Florida can cause an accident that leaves you severely injured, even if you did nothing wrong. If this happens, contact Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers for a free consultation. One of our Tampa personal injury attorneys can:
- Help you collect evidence documenting the severity of your injuries
- Prepare and file a claim against the at-fault motorist’s insurance
- Answer requests for information and discovery as your claim is processed
- Negotiate for a fair settlement that addresses your injuries and losses
- Proceed to trial with your case if the insurance company tries to low-ball your claim
Tampa, Florida, is one of the state’s major cities. As a motorcyclist, you must be prepared to protect yourself and your rights if you are hurt by another person. This involves knowing when to seek legal assistance from an experienced injury lawyer.
5 Motorcycle Laws Every Rider Should Know
There are a number of motorcycle-specific laws in Florida, and you are expected to know and follow each of them. However, some of these laws are more significant than others. This list includes the following five statutes applicable to motorcyclists in Tampa:
1. Eye Protection Is Mandatory
All motorcycle riders must wear appropriate eye protection at all times while riding a motorcycle. This reduces the chance that you suffer temporary or permanent blindness from road debris and unintentionally cause a crash. Any passengers who are riding with you must also wear eye protection. This requirement is not optional under any circumstances.
2. Helmets Are Mandatory If You Are Under 21
Riders and passengers who are under 21 years old must wear an approved and properly fitted motorcycle helmet when riding a motorcycle. If you are 21 or older, you can choose not to wear a helmet without consequence. However, wearing a helmet can significantly reduce the chance of a severe head injury in a crash, no matter how old you are.
3. Your Motorcycle Must Come With Appropriate Equipment
Certain equipment must be present on your motorcycle and functioning at all times. For example, motorcycle headlights must be on at all times, regardless of the weather or lighting conditions. This helps others see the motorcyclist and potentially avoids a crash. If you are carrying a passenger, your motorcycle must have a designated seat with footrests for them.
4. Stunts Are Illegal
Performing stunts can be a fun way to show off one’s skill, but they are strictly illegal in Florida. As exciting as they may be, they are also extremely dangerous and could lead to a wreck. For this reason, the law requires you to stay seated on your motorcycle and face forward at all times. Both hands must remain on your handlebars and both feet on the footrests.
5. You Must Have A Motorcycle Endorsement
Motorcycles handle differently than cars and vice versa. As a result, your regular driver’s license will not allow you to legally drive a motorcycle. To do so, you must obtain a motorcycle endorsement on your existing license. This requires that you pass a knowledge test and a Basic Rider Course.
Following these laws will not only prevent you from paying a hefty fine or facing other sanctions, but they can also mean the difference between life and death if you are involved in a crash. Therefore, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with these and other motorcycle laws in Tampa before taking to the streets.
Contact Our Tampa Motorcycle Accident Lawyers For A Free Consultation
If you do find yourself injured in a crash, contact Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers for help with your next steps. Schedule a no-cost case evaluation with one of our experienced Tampa motorcycle accident attorneys, who can listen to your concerns and advise you on how to exercise your legal rights. Your attorney will be with you every step of the recovery process, working tirelessly to help you succeed.
Contact us to schedule a free consultation.
