Motorcycles are motor vehicles with the same rights as cars, but drivers often overlook them. About half of fatal motorcycle crashes involve a motorcycle being struck by another vehicle. Check twice, save a life.
Know the rule
The riding season usually runs March through October, but some ride all year. Be especially alert for oncoming motorcycles when entering traffic or turning left across traffic, not just at intersections.
Handbook p. 59 ↗Sharing the road with motorcycles:
- Changing lanes: check mirrors and blind spots for motorcycles, signal early, and check twice
- Following: keep a four-second following distance (three seconds for other vehicles)
- Turning left: let an oncoming motorcycle pass through the intersection first
- Road hazards like gravel and potholes can force sudden moves: give extra space
Know the rule
A motorcycle has the right to use the full width of a lane. Never move into the same lane space as a motorcycle, even if the lane is wide and the rider is to one side; crowding into its lane is illegal and very dangerous.
Handbook p. 60 ↗Motorcycle rules:
- Don't ride along pavement lines between lanes of traffic
- Ride no more than two abreast (side by side)
- Stay off highways unless your motorcycle can safely drive at the minimum posted speed
- Read the RMV Motorcycle Manual before applying for a motorcycle license
Small and slow vehicles
| Vehicle | Speed rule | License needed |
|---|---|---|
| Moped (motorized bicycle) | Don't exceed 25 mph | Any class, or a permit |
| Motorized scooter | Don't exceed 20 mph | Any class, or a permit |
| Limited use vehicle | Over 30, up to 40 mph | Class M or D, by type |
| Low speed vehicle (LSV) | Between 20 and 25 mph | Class D license or permit |
Moped
A pedal bicycle with a helper motor, or a non-pedal bicycle with a motor, with a top speed of 30 mph or less, 50 cc or less, and an automatic transmission.
Handbook p. 60 ↗Moped rules:
- No limited-access or express state highways posted against bicycles
- No off-street recreational paths (bike lanes along roads are OK)
- Driver and passenger wear helmets meeting the US DOT standard
- Use electronic and hand signals before stopping or turning
- No passengers when riding on a learner's permit
- Fine for breaking these rules: up to $100
Motorized scooter rules:
- Two or three wheels, handlebars and a motor; the RMV will not register them
- No limited-access or express state highways
- Wear a helmet meeting the US DOT standard
- Stay to the right, even when passing
- No riding after sunset or before sunrise, and no passengers
- Fines: up to $25 (1st), $25-$50 (2nd), $50-$100 (3rd and later)
Know the rule
Limited use vehicles may not use limited-access or express state highways or roads posted over 40 mph. Low speed vehicles (four wheels, gross weight under 3,000 lbs.) may not use those highways or roads posted over 30 mph.
Handbook p. 62 ↗Put it into practice
You're waiting to turn left and a motorcycle is approaching. Even if you think you have time, the rider may not be able to change speed safely: let the motorcycle pass through the intersection first.