California Motorcycle Laws

The laws governing motorcyclists vary from state to state, and it’s important to be aware of the laws in your home state. The degree to which you abide by these laws may impact your ability to recover compensation if you’re injured in a motorcycle accident.

This page will provide you with a brief overview of California motorcycle laws, but it can’t advise you about your case. The best way to learn about your rights and options after being injured in a motorcycle accident is to speak with Mickey Fine in person. Please call (661) 333-3333 today to schedule your free consultation at our Bakersfield personal injury office.

Required Safety Gear

California has some of the strictest laws in the country regarding motorcycle safety gear. These laws are in place to ensure your safety. Under California motorcycle law:

  • You must wear a helmet at all times
  • Helmet speakers can only contain a single earphone
  • Daytime headlights are mandatory for all motorcycles manufactured after 1978
  • Eye protection isn’t mandatory

Motorcycle Specifications

California has established a series of laws regulating the specifications of bikes. These include:

  • Handlebars cannot be more than 6 inches above the driver’s shoulders when sitting on the motorcycle
  • Mufflers are required and all cut out, bypass, and similar devices are prohibited
  • Passenger seat and foot rest are required if you are going to transport a passenger
  • Turn signals are mandatory
  • Radar detectors are permitted without restriction
  • All motorcycles may be subject to random safety inspections
  • You must pass a driver skill test to operate a motorcycle

Motorcycle Insurance Requirements in California

California law establishes the following minimum coverage requirements for motorcycle insurance policies:

  • $5,000 in property damage
  • $15,000 in bodily injury coverage per person injured, and at least $30,000 for all people injured in the motorcycle accident

Rules of the Road

Lane splitting and operating two motorcycles side-by-side in the same traffic lane are allowed under California law. Safety inspections for all motorcycles are required and may be conducted at random. In addition, there are no restrictions on the ages of motorcycle passengers.

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident caused by the negligence of another, please contact the Law Offices of Mickey Fine using the form at the right side of the page or call (661) 333-3333 today to schedule your free consultation. Mr. Fine serves clients in Bakersfield, California.

Personal Injury
by Mickey Fine Law
Last updated on - Originally published on