Types of traffic violations motorcyclists can face

Riding a motorcycle this time of year can be fun and relaxing. Yet, just as with any other motor vehicle, these bikes need be driven in accordance with the law, lest the operator wants to be slapped with a traffic violations. The first way to prevent being hit with one of these traffic violations is knowing what the state considers a violation. For that, one must turn to the law. Today, we’ll briefly touch on a few of the traffic violation laws that apply to motorcyclists.

One statute aimed at safety and results in many traffic stops regards motorcycles passing other vehicles. Under New York law, it is illegal for a motorcyclist to pass another vehicle if that vehicle is in the same lane in which the motorcyclist is traveling. Of course, in designated passing zones, such actions are appropriate, but it is illegal to pass within the same lane.

Additionally, it is a violation for a motorcyclist to travel between lanes of traffic. This can often be seen when there is a traffic jam and a motorcyclist decides to bypass it by zipping between the lanes of stopped vehicles. While this law focuses on safety, so, too, do laws regarding the equipment motorcyclists must utilize when on the roadway. The list can be quite extensive, and it may be discussed in a future post.

So why does it matter if an individual receives a traffic citation? Well, first of all, it can result in a fine. Second, in some instances, the law allows the prosecutor to seek imprisonment. Together, these penalties can wreak havoc on an individual’s personal life, as well as his or her professional life. Also, a traffic violation can lead to increased insurance costs and even a suspension or revocation of one’s license. Therefore, when one is accused of violating a traffic law, it may be in his or her interest to consider his or her legal options rather than just taking the penalties that have been laid out before him or her.