Massachusetts Motorcycle Laws

If you operate a motorcycle in Massachusetts, you must know and comply with several important laws. Massachusetts motorcycle laws are designed to protect motorcyclists and other drivers from being involved in accidents. Scroll down to review some key laws of the Bay State.

Massachusetts Motorcycle Laws

Motorcyclists must comply with all laws that apply to other motorists, including the following:

• Obey the posted speed limit.
• Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks or who are crossing at unmarked intersections.
• Obey traffic control devices.
• Avoid driving aggressively.
• Do not follow closely.
• Travel in the right lane on two-lane highways except when passing.
• Use your turn signals to signal turns or when passing.
• Do not operate your motorcycle while you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

In addition to these generally applicable rules, you must also follow some Massachusetts motorcycle laws that are specific to motorcycle riders, including all of the following . . .

Massachusetts Motorcycle Helmet Law

Under M.G.L. 90 § 7, motorcycle operators and passengers must wear helmets at all times whenever they operate or ride on motorcycles in Massachusetts. The helmet law is in place because the use of helmets has been shown to greatly reduce the risk of serious head injuries when motorcyclists are involved in accidents. You should choose a DOT-approved helmet.

Motorcycle Eyewear Protection Law

Motorcyclists are also required to wear eye protection when they ride. This law is to prevent debris from entering your eyes while you ride, which can cause you to lose control of your bike. You can use goggles, a face shield, or eyeglasses. There is an exception to the eyewear protection requirement if your bike is equipped with a windscreen.

Motorcycle License Requirement

To operate a motorcycle on the streets in Massachusetts, you must get a motorcycle license instead of a regular driver’s license. This license is called a Class M license. To get your Class M license, you will need to demonstrate that you have learned to ride a motorcycle properly. The state requires you to start by getting a Class M permit and passing the Class D knowledge exam. While you are operating your bike with a permit, you can only ride during the day and can’t carry any passengers.

Special Rules for Minors to Obtain Class M Licenses

Minors who want to get Class M licenses must carry their permits and have a clean driving record for six or more months before they will be allowed to take the road test. They are also restricted from driving between 12:30 a.m. and 5:30 a.m. Motorcycle riders under the age of 18 must complete a rider education course in addition to the basic driver’s education course. Anyone seeking a motorcycle license must also be at least 16 years old and have their parents’ permission to seek a Class M license.

Restrictions on Motorcycles

Massachusetts law also places restrictions on the types of bikes you can operate. Your bike’s handlebars can’t be taller than your shoulders when you properly sit on the motorcycle. Your bike must also meet the state’s noise standards of being no louder than 82 decibels when traveling at 45 mph.

Minimum Safety Standards for Motorcycles

The minimum safety standards for motorcycles include the following:

• Working headlights and tail lights
• Working license plate light
• Working brakes
• Secure seat
• Rearview mirrors

No Lane-Splitting

Lane-splitting is specifically prohibited in Massachusetts. While some motorcyclists believe that lane-splitting is safe, it is illegal in Massachusetts.

All motorcycle riders must know and follow the Massachusetts motorcycle laws. These laws can help decrease your risk of being involved in a motorcycle accident and keep both you and those around you safe. If you were seriously injured in a motorcycle accident because of someone else’s negligence, you might have grounds to pursue a motorcycle accident claim. Contact the attorneys at Ellis & Associates for a free case evaluation by calling 800-MR-ELLIS or sending us a message online.