What Are Arizona’s Motorcycle Laws?

Motorcycles have really gained popularity over the past several years. People of all generations and gender enjoy the feeling of riding on the open road. But along with the fun of riding is the added risks and responsibility that comes with driving a motorcycle. And while motorcyclists are required to follow the same traffic laws as other vehicles, there are certain additional laws that motorcyclists are required to follow. Failure to follow those laws could result in motorcycle accidents and injured victims. If you have been a victim of a motorcycle accident, you may be asking, what are Arizona’s motorcycle laws? A motorcycle accident attorney can answer all your questions and see what legal recourse you may have.

Motorcycle Laws in Arizona

In order to operate a motorcycle in the state of Arizona, the operator must obtain a Class M (motorcycle) endorsement. In order to receive this endorsement, the operator must be at least 16 years of age. If the operator is under the age of 18, they must have had their learner’s permit for a minimum of six months. The operator must do one of the following:

• Complete a Motor Vehicle Division-approved motorcycle safety program
• Submit a certification from a parent or guardian declaring that the applicant has completed a minimum of 30 hours of driving practice.

The operator must also pass a written test, vision screening, and medical screening in order to receive a Class M endorsement. Without that endorsement, the driver cannot legally operate a motorcycle in the state of Arizona.

Arizona also has a motorcycle helmet law that requires all motorcycle operators and passengers under the age of 18 to wear a helmet. The helmet’s design – whether a three-quarter or full face – must meet the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) standards or have a label of approval from the Snell Memorial Foundation. It is important to make sure the helmet fits snugly completely around the rider’s head. If the helmet should have frayed straps, loose padding, cracks, or any other defects, it should be replaced.

Motorcycle riders are also required to wear goggles and a transparent face shield or protective glasses under Arizona law. A windshield on the motorcycle itself is also acceptable protection. Other required equipment for the bike includes a seat, footrests, rearview mirror, and headlights. There must also be footrests and a seat for passengers. And speaking of passengers, if the motorcyclist only has a permit, they are not allowed to have any passengers in the vehicle.

Arizona also has a lane-sharing law. A motorcycle has the right to full use of a lane and is not allowed to pass another vehicle in the same lane they are in. A motorcycle operator is not allowed to drive between traffic lanes or between rows of other vehicles. This is referred to as lane-splitting. And motorcycles are not allowed to drive more than two bikes next to each other in a single lane.

Arizona also addresses noise in its motorcycle laws. The highest noise level for a muffler on a motorcycle is calculated based on the model of the vehicle. The law does require that the motorcycle have the original muffler or noise reduction parts if the original part is no longer installed. The law also bars the use of bypass or cutoff devices. For more information, contact the Saavedra Law Firm today.

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