What Are the Laws About Motorcycle Accidents in PA?

Do you know your rights and responsibilities as a motorcyclist in Pennsylvania? Understanding the laws and your options for seeking compensation can make a big difference in the aftermath of a crash. Here’s what you need to know about the regulations and insurance requirements that apply to Pennsylvania motorcycle accident cases.

Pennsylvania Motorcycle Helmet Laws

Pennsylvania law requires motorcyclists to wear protective helmets, but there are exceptions. Riders 21 and older may ride without a helmet if they have held a motorcycle license for at least two years or have completed a PennDOT-approved safety course. Additionally, passengers of helmet-exempt riders can also ride without helmets if they are 21 or older. However, regardless of age or license status, all Pennsylvania motorcyclists and passengers must use eye protection while riding unless operating motorized pedalcycles or three-wheeled motorcycles with enclosed cabs.

Licensing Requirements for Motorcyclists in Pennsylvania

You must first obtain a Class M learner’s permit to operate a motorcycle legally in Pennsylvania. To receive your permit, you must complete a Motorcycle Learner’s Permit Application and pass a vision screening and motorcycle knowledge test. The permit is valid for one year. With a learner’s permit, you can only ride during daylight hours and must wear a helmet and eye protection. You cannot carry passengers unless you have a licensed instructor with you.

You must pass an on-cycle skills test to earn a full Class M license. If you’re under 18, you must also complete the Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Basic Rider Course and log 65 hours of supervised riding.

Other Pennsylvania Motorcycle Laws

Under Pennsylvania law, motorcyclists must sit on the regular seats attached to their motorcycles and can only carry passengers if their motorcycles are designed to accommodate more than one person. Motorcycle passengers must sit behind or beside operators, never in front. Riders must face forward and straddle their seats with one leg on each side. Additionally, motorcycle operators cannot carry items that prevent them from keeping both hands on the handlebars.

Mandatory Insurance Coverage for Motorcyclists in Pennsylvania

All motorcyclists in Pennsylvania must carry minimum levels of liability insurance, which covers other people’s losses if you are at fault for an accident. These minimums include $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident for injuries or death, and $5,000 per accident for property damage. Pennsylvania law also requires a minimum of $5,000 in medical benefits insurance.

Contact a Pennsylvania Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Now

If you’ve been hurt in a motorcycle accident in Pennsylvania, don’t wait to get the help you need. At Ainsman Levine, LLC, our attorneys know Pennsylvania’s motorcycle laws inside and out, and we’re ready to fight for your rights after an accident. We can:

Investigate the accident to determine who’s to blame
Calculate the value of your claim so we pursue full compensation
Negotiate aggressively with the at-fault driver’s insurance provider
Represent you in court if it becomes the best way to assert your rights

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