If you are going to operate a motorcycle on city streets there are some rules of the road specifically for motorcyclists that you should be aware of, as well as some things to keep in mind that some motorcyclists disregard. Operating a motorcycle can be a dangerous task and other drivers on the road may not regard your motorcycle as another automobile on the road because of its size, which could mean that you have to do their job as well as yours when it comes to observing intersections and other potential hazardous situations.
First, is something that you may be tempted to do as a motorcycle rider, but should be aware of as against the law in most areas and very dangerous. Do not ride between the lanes of traffic or zig-zag between slow moving cars to get where you are going faster. Just because your motorcycle will fit between lanes of cars does not give you the right to jump the line of traffic and could be very dangerous for you if another driver suddenly moves out of their lane into another and crushes you against another car.
Use your turn signals when you are supposed to. This is another thing that many motorcycle riders avoid doing, and in fact, many drivers in general do not use their turn signals on a regular basis. However, this can be extremely hazardous for any driver as other drivers do not know your intentions and can potentially cause dangerous situations for you. Using your turn signals will not only keep you safe on the roadways but will also keep you from receiving citations as it is against the law to turn or change lanes without using them, and is more strictly enforced in some areas than others.
Use courtesy when traveling the roadways, so that others will be courteous to you and other motorcycle riders in the future. Motorcyclists have gotten a bad rap, and each time someone on a motorcycle weaves through traffic, or uses the size and speed of their craft to create hazards for other drivers the rap gets worse. Do your part and be respectful to other motorists. Follow all traffic laws and act as if you were driving any other vehicle on the road. Also, make sure that you are using the stock muffler that came with your bike to avoid irritating others on the road and people you pass by.
Not everyone treats motorcycles like other vehicles on the road and in fact, some people have a preconceived opinions about motorcyclists that cause them to act aggressively towards them or not offer them the same courtesy that they extend to other drivers. You need to watch carefully as you ride your motorcycle and be aware that others may not always do what you expect. If you are involved in an accident where you think another driver acted inappropriately and caused you to collide with another car or stationary object you should contact a motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible.
Emery Brett Ledger brings more than 27 years of experience to personal injury law. He founded & led The Ledger Law Firm in securing over $100 million in compensation for clients with life-altering injuries & complex claims. Licensed in California, Texas, & Washington, Emery earned his law degree from Pepperdine University School of Law. His practice areas include car & truck accidents, wrongful death, catastrophic injuries, maritime claims, & mass tort litigation. He has been recognized by The National Trial Lawyers’ Top 100, Mass Tort Trial Lawyers Top 25, and America’s Top 100 Personal Injury Attorneys. Emery also received the 2025 Elite Lawyer Award & holds a perfect 10.0 Avvo rating with Platinum Client Champion status. His legal work has been featured on CNN, Forbes, NBC, & ABC.
