Connecticut motorcycle safety guide
Those seeking to ride motorcycles in Connecticut should not only be aware of some safety tips, but also the mandatory requirements to be licensed.
For many people living in Connecticut, riding a motorcycle is an activity that brings joy. Whether someone wants to be a part of a local motorcycle club or wants to just enjoy the freeing feeling of being open to the environment, there is no shortage of riders on the roads these days. Unfortunately, with small vehicles where riders are exposed, the risk of injury in a car accident is far greater than it is for those driving enclosed passenger vehicles. In order to improve safety and avoid the risk of a crash, riders should be aware of the State DMV’s requirements for a motorcycle license to be approved. It is also helpful to be aware of some safety guidelines provided by experts.
What the State of Connecticut requires
The qualifications needed to be able to ride a motorcycle in Connecticut are, as one might expect, more rigorous than what is required to simply get a driver’s license. Once a motorcycle license is obtained, it is still considered restricted until the driver can use a two-wheel motorcycle to pass a certified motorcycle safety course. While the age requirements differ from state to state, Connecticut does allow drivers between the ages of 16 and 18 to operate a motorcycle, however, in order for them to be licensed, they must have their parents complete a Certificate of Parental Consent. In addition to the normal driving knowledge test given to all learners, those seeking motorcycle privileges will need to complete a separate motorcycle knowledge and vision test. Re-exams are allowed for anyone, as long as they are able to pay the testing fee again.
Motorcycle tips from the State
Once someone has fulfilled the requirements to be licensed to ride a motorcycle, it is still helpful to become acquainted with some strategies to maximize safety and avoid collisions, such as those contained in the Motorcycle Operator’s Manual released by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation:
- When changing lanes, riders should always turn their heads to check the blind spots not visible through rearview mirrors alone.
- As motorcycles are smaller than other vehicles, riders should be especially alert and ready to use their horn when cars changing lanes have not taken notice of them.
- To improve visibility, it is suggested that riders keep their headlights on at all times, even during the day.
- When approaching an intersection where visibility is limited, riders should move to the part of the lane that will make them visible as early as possible to turning drivers.
A good thing for a motorcyclist to always remember is to assume a car will intersect his or her path if it can, in order to stay in the safest possible position.
If someone in Connecticut has been involved in a motorcycle accident, it is possible that the medical expenses could be exorbitant. An attorney in the local area who practices car accident law may be able to help to get much-needed compensation to deal with the bills and any pain and suffering involved.