Free Consultation: 800-937-8443

Free Consultation: 800-937-8443

Motorcycle safetyThe Kentucky Motorcycle Manual is a booklet provided by the Kentucky State Police to provide motorcycle owners with the most current information on safe motorcycle practices and Kentucky laws in regards to operating motorcycles in the state. Every motorcyclist should be aware of these things.

Obeying the Rules

It is particularly important for motorcyclists to obey the rules collected in this manual because failure to do so could be used against them in the event of an accident. Even when another driver or entity is at fault, a violation of Kentucky motorcycle laws or regulations can frequently be used as a means to limit or avoid liability. This can prevent the victim from collecting the maximum compensation available, or even void claims altogether.

Rule: Have a Motorcycle License

The most important principle a motorcyclist should be aware of is that all traffic laws apply equally to those operating a passenger vehicle and a motorcycle. You must also possess a valid operator’s license for motorcycles, an instruction permit for motorcycles, or a motor vehicle operator’s license with a motorcycle operator’s endorsement attached. Failure to be properly licensed can make it more difficult to recover damages in the event of an accident.

Rule: Use Protective Gear

Other requirements include that the operator must use an approved eye-protection device, and both the operator and passenger must wear approved protective headgear at all times when the vehicle is in motion. There is an exception to the helmet rule for persons over 21 who have possessed a motorcycle license for one year or more. Additionally, a motorcycle operator with an instruction permit is not allowed to carry passengers.

Rule: Have the Right Equipment (and Insurance)

There are also strict requirements for your motorcycle to be allowed on Kentucky roadways. The list of necessary equipment includes a rearview mirror, one headlight with a high and low beam, a taillight, a horn, a muffler, a tailpipe, a brake light, and front and rear brakes, in addition to proof of liability insurance and registration.

The Kentucky Motorcycle Manual goes into greater detail about state laws and regulations, as well as highlighting important safety information. We cover more in part two and three of this blog. Being familiar with this information can help avoid accidents and injuries altogether.

However, if you or a loved one has been the victim of a motorcycle accident, it is important to consult a lawyer who is experienced with Kentucky motorcycle laws. With over 90 years of combined experience, the legal team at the Louisville office of Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC, has successfully represented numerous Kentucky motorcycle injury victims. To schedule a free consultation, call (502) 458-5555 today.

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