The rush of adrenaline you get from riding your favorite two-wheeled vehicle, combined with the beautiful desert scenery, makes riding a motorcycle in Arizona an unforgettable experience. But just like anywhere else, motorcyclists in Arizona are especially vulnerable to accidents. Unlike car and truck drivers, motorcyclists aren’t shielded from outside elements with a sturdy layer of steel. If you’re riding your motorcycle and get in an accident, you’ll likely suffer serious injuries or even lose your life.

To minimize the risk of life-threatening injuries, the Arizona Department of Transportation imposes strict laws on motorcyclists. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor in the Grand Canyon State, you’ll have to adhere to several safety rules concerning things like motorcycle equipment, lane sharing, helmet laws and more.

Motorcycle License, Registration and Insurance Requirements

Before you can hit the road on your motorcycle, you’ll need to make sure you have a valid motorcycle license, registration and vehicle insurance.

In Arizona, you’ll need a class M license to operate your motorcycle. If you’re already a licensed driver, the process is relatively straightforward—you’ll have to pass a written test followed by a vision screening.

If you’re not a licensed driver and would like to get a class M license, you’ll have to be at least 16 years old and complete a motorcycle driver safety program approved by ADOT’s Motor Vehicle Division (MVD).

You’ll also need to have a valid motorcycle insurance policy and register your motorcycle with the MVD within 15 days of purchase. Once you’ve insured and registered your ride, you’ll receive a motorcycle license plate, which you’ll need to mount on the back of your motorcycle.

Arizona Motorcycle Helmet Law

According to Arizona law, anyone riding or operating a motorcycle who’s under the age of 18 must wear a helmet. Failure to do so may result in hefty fines. Also, a motorcyclist, regardless of age, must wear some type of eye protection while operating the motorcycle, such as glasses, goggles or a face shield. If your motorcycle is equipped with a protective windshield, you don’t need to adhere to the eye protection requirement.

While adults aren’t technically required to wear a helmet, wearing one when riding your motorcycle will significantly reduce your chances of suffering a debilitating head injury. Also, if another driver caused your injuries, and it’s determined wearing a helmet would have prevented your injuries, you may not be entitled to compensation.

What About Protective Gear?

Arizona is relatively lenient on motorcycle safety laws, but this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take ownership of your safety on the road. It’s recommended to wear protective clothing when operating a motorcycle, like gloves, boots, a jacket and long pants. This may be somewhat uncomfortable during the hot Phoenix summer, but it will protect your skin from road rash and painful injuries.

Lane Sharing and Lane Splitting in Arizona

Lane sharing, as the name implies, refers to two motorcyclists sharing the same lane side-by-side with one another. If you’re travelling with a partner and wish to share the same lane, you can lawfully do so.

On the other hand, lane splitting, which refers to motorcyclists riding between stopped or slowed traffic, is currently illegal, although a new law may change that in some circumstances.

Passenger Laws for Arizona Motorcycle Riders

If you’re thinking about taking a friend or family member on a ride with you, you’ll need to ensure your motorcycle is equipped with an extra seat and footrests. For safety reasons, the passenger should wear a helmet, but it’s not a requirement unless they’re a minor.

Also, people who only have a learner’s permit are not allowed to have any passengers riding with them.

Get in Touch with a Phoenix Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident because of someone else’s carelessness, consider getting legal help as soon as possible.

You can get legal advice from a renowned personal injury attorney in Phoenix by contacting one of the law firms listed on PHX Elite Lawyers. We have found some of the Valley’s top-notch lawyers, and they would be happy to help with your case.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, reach out to one of the law groups listed on our website.