What You Need To Know About Motorcycle Laws in Washington State

Riding through Washington State on your motorcycle offers an incredible sense of freedom, with scenic routes and open roads calling your name. However, to truly enjoy your ride, it’s important to understand and comply with the motorcycle laws in Washington state. In this blog, an experienced Spokane injury attorney shares what you need to know to stay safe, legal, and confidently navigate the roads on your next two-wheeled adventure.

Licensing Requirements

To legally operate a motorcycle in Washington State, you need more than just a standard driver’s license. You must obtain a motorcycle endorsement on your license. Here’s what you need to qualify and what you need to do:

1. Be at least 16 years old and hold a valid Washington State driver’s license.
2. If you’re under 18, you must pass an approved 2-wheel safety course approved by the Washington Department of Licensing and have your parent or guardian sign a consent form.
3. Pass the motorcycle permit knowledge test and riding skills test. If you already have a valid motorcycle instruction permit, you may use it instead of retaking these tests.
4. Pass the motorcycle endorsement knowledge test and riding skills test.

Remember, riding without proper endorsement can result in hefty fines and even impoundment of your motorcycle.

Helmet Laws

Washington State takes head protection seriously. You must wear a helmet at all times while operating or riding as a passenger on a motorcycle. But not just any helmet will do. Your helmet must comply with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) standards. Look for the DOT symbol on the back of the helmet to ensure it meets these requirements. In addition to a DOT-approved helmet, Washington law requires riders to use eye protection unless the motorcycle is equipped with a windshield.

Insurance Requirements

Just like with cars, you’re required to carry motorcycle insurance in Washington State. The minimum coverage requirements are:

• $25,000 for injuries or death to one person
• $50,000 for injuries or death to all persons
• $10,000 for property damage

However, it’s often wise to consider higher coverage limits to better protect yourself financially in case of an accident. Washington State also has a mandatory uninsured motorist coverage requirement unless waived in writing by the policyholder.

Lane Splitting and Lane Sharing

Unlike some states, Washington does not allow lane splitting, which is the practice of riding between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic. This maneuver is illegal and can result in a traffic citation.

Lane sharing, where two motorcycles ride side-by-side in a single lane, is permitted. However, it’s generally safer to ride in a staggered formation when traveling with other motorcyclists, although this is not a legal requirement. Similarly, when it comes to academic tasks, such as writing a paper, it’s important to seek the right assistance. Services like facharbeit schreiben lassen can help ensure your work is done efficiently and professionally, allowing you to focus on other priorities without compromising quality.

Equipment Requirements

Your motorcycle must be equipped with certain features to be street legal in Washington. This includes:

• At least one headlight (two for motorcycles manufactured after 1978)
• At least one tail light
• At least one brake light
• Turn signals (for motorcycles manufactured after 1973)
• At least one mirror
• Handlebars no higher than 30 inches above the seat
• Footrests for the operator and any passenger
• A muffler to prevent excessive noise
• A functional speedometer and odometer

Ensure your bike meets these requirements to avoid potential fines or citations.

Passenger Laws

If you want to carry a passenger on your motorcycle, there are a few additional rules to follow:

• Your motorcycle must be designed to carry more than one person
• You must have a separate seat for your passenger or a designated seating area behind the driver
• Your passenger must have separate footrests
• Like the operator, passengers must wear DOT-approved helmets

Operating Under the Influence

The consequences of riding a motorcycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs are severe in Washington State. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%, but you can be arrested for impaired driving even with a lower BAC if your ability to ride safely is affected.

Penalties for a DUI can include fines, license suspension, mandatory alcohol education programs, and even jail time. It’s crucial to always ride sober to protect yourself and others on the road.

Annual Vehicle Inspections

Unlike some states, Washington does not require annual safety inspections for motorcycles. However, you are responsible for maintaining your motorcycle in a safe operating condition. Regular self-inspections and maintenance are crucial for your safety and the longevity of your bike.

Motorcycle-Specific Traffic Laws

While many traffic laws apply equally to motorcycles and cars, there are a few motorcycle-specific rules to keep in mind:

• You must use your headlight at all times, even during daylight hours
• You’re allowed to use the HOV lanes, regardless of the number of passengers
• You must ride with both wheels on the ground at all times (no wheelies!)

By familiarizing yourself with these laws and regulations, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy the freedom of the open road on your motorcycle in Washington State. Remember, these laws are in place to keep you and other road users safe. Always ride responsibly, stay alert, and enjoy the beautiful scenery that Washington has to offer from the seat of your motorcycle.

When Safety Isn’t Enough: Your Next Steps After a Motorcycle Accident

You’ve got questions. We’ve got answers.

You’ve followed every rule in the book. Your helmet meets DOT standards, your motorcycle is properly equipped, and you’ve always prioritized safety on the road. But sometimes, despite your best efforts, accidents happen due to others’ negligence. If you find yourself injured in a motorcycle accident that wasn’t your fault, you need support. At Albrecht Law, our team is here to provide that support and guide you through the legal process.

Don’t let insurance companies minimize your suffering or pressure you into a quick settlement. Your recovery and future are too important. Our experienced Spokane, WA motorcycle wreck attorneys are ready to fight for your rights and pursue the compensation you need to rebuild your life.

Take the first step towards justice and recovery. Contact Albrecht Law today at (509) 495-1246(509) 495-1246 or fill out our confidential online form for a free, no-obligation consultation. We serve clients throughout Spokane and surrounding areas, including Spokane Valley, Liberty Lake, and Cheney. Time is crucial in motorcycle accident cases. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can start building your case. Let a motorcycle personal injury lawyer handle the legal complexities while you focus on healing.

Want to know if you should pursue compensation for your injuries? Take our FREE quiz now.

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The information in this blog post (“post”) is provided for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the current law in your jurisdiction. No information in this post should be construed as legal advice from the individual author or the law firm, nor is it intended to be a substitute for legal counsel on any subject matter. No reader of this post should act or refrain from acting based on any information included in or accessible through this post without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from a lawyer licensed in the recipient’s state, country, or other appropriate licensing jurisdiction.

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Spokane Valley, WA 99212
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