Motorcycle Laws in Tennessee

Anyone operating a motorcycle in Tennessee must adhere to the state’s laws, which govern all aspects of using these bikes on the state’s roadways. Understanding these laws can help you, too, if you suffer an injury as a result of a motorcycle accident. They can help you determine what your losses are and the value of your claim. Take into consideration the following motorcycle laws in Tennessee, and then speak with a Nashville motorcycle accident lawyer about your case.

Licensing Requirements for Motorcycle Riders in Tennessee

The first step is to ensure that any person on the roadway has the skills necessary to operate their bike safely. The state requires riders to obtain a Class M endorsement on their driver’s license. This means you have passed the necessary safety and skill tests to ride a motorcycle as set by state law.

All riders must be at least 16 years of age to obtain this endorsement. There are situations in which a special permit may be issued to a person under the age of 16, often for smaller vehicles. If you do not have a Class M endorsement and are riding a motorcycle on roadways throughout the state, you are violating the law and could face fines and fees.

Motorcycle Gear and Equipment Requirements

The state’s motorcycle laws also include provisions for rider safety. These laws aim to reduce the safety risks riders face on roadways. Under the law, all motorcycle riders must:

Wear a helmet: The state requires all motorcycle riders to wear a helmet, though those over 21 may use a modified version. In most cases, the state expects you to choose a helmet that meets federal safety standards. Modifications to these rules may allow for changes in contour or added ventilation.
Mirrors: Your motorcycle must have at least one rearview mirror that you can see out of as you ride the bike.
Footrests: Your motorcycle must have footrests attached for both the driver and any passengers.
Windshield or eye protection: Motorcycles can have a windshield; in these cases, you do not need to wear specific eye protection. However, if not, you and your passengers must wear face shields, safety goggles, or impact-resistant glasses.
Lights: All motorcycles must have at least one red tail lamp in place and one red stoplight for visibility. This aims to reduce risks to you in low-light conditions.

Motorcycle riders who are not adhering to these very specific rules can face fines. In addition, without a helmet or other required gear, you may be unable to seek maximum compensation for your injuries under the law if someone else causes your accident.

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Motorcycle Passenger Rules in Tennessee

Motorcycle riders can carry a passenger in Tennessee, but several rules must be followed.

Seat: Every person on the motorcycle must have a secured seat. If the motorcycle is not designed for more than one person, just one person can ride. Or the passenger must sit on a seat attached to the rear or side of the motorcycle.
Children: Children can be passengers on a motorcycle, but they must have their feet on the bike’s footpegs or ride securely in a sidecar.

Violations of these laws can result in serious fines. They can also impact your right to recover fair damages in these cases. At Selvidge Injury Law, our Nashville personal injury lawyer can answer your questions and alleviate your fear following a crash. Schedule a free consultation today.

Motorcycle Laws on Tennessee Roads

Tennessee motorcycle laws also define safety on the state’s public roads. As a rider, you must understand how to navigate the roadway in a safe manner, including with care and proper sharing of the roadway with other vehicles and pedestrians. Some of the state’s specific laws include the following:

Passing: You cannot pass another car in the same lane as you are in. To pass a vehicle on the roadway, the motorcycle rider must change lanes and pass to the left, as they would in a vehicle.
Hands on the handlebars: Riders must keep both of their hands on the handlebars whenever the bike is moving. You cannot carry anything in your hands or use a phone while you are riding a motorcycle.
Full lane use: Motorcycles have the right to use the entire lane they are in. That means that another driver cannot encroach on your space. If there is more than one motorcycle rider, two can ride side-by-side within the same lane (no more than two).
Lane splitting: Tennessee law does not allow for lane splitting. That means that motorcycle riders cannot weave between rows of cars. They cannot pass between two vehicles stopped at a light, for example.
Laws: Motorcycle riders must adhere to all of the state’s traffic laws. That includes following the same speed limits and adhering to traffic signals as any other vehicle on the roadway.
Intoxication: Riders are held to the same standards for driving under the influence as those who are operating a vehicle.

Any violations of these laws can lead to serious consequences, including fines, points, and the loss of your license. It is up to the rider to know these laws and follow them.

Liability in Accidents

Motorcycle accidents occur frequently, and, like any other vehicle, riders can be held accountable if they cause injury to others. If you are a motorcycle rider and someone else causes your injuries, you also have the right to pursue a claim for fair compensation under the law against those parties. Either party can be held accountable for injuries and damages suffered.

Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Tennessee

Understanding the applicable motorcycle laws in Tennessee allows you, as a victim of an accident, to hold those who hurt you accountable. Set up a free consultation with our motorcycle accident lawyer now to find out how we can help you. Call Selvidge Injury Law today to inquire about your rights to fair compensation. We do not charge you anything unless we win your case.