Motorcycle Laws in South Carolina (And How They Impact Your Case)
Like other states, South Carolina has many laws regulating motorcycles and those who want to ride them. These laws are designed with public safety in mind, and they could come into play if you are hurt in a crash while riding your bike. Snyder Heitman LLC is a prominent South Carolina personal injury lawyer, and we negotiate settlements for those hurt in motorcycle collisions. Contact us to discuss any accident. Below, we look at key laws related to motorcycles.
Endorsement
To legally drive in South Carolina, motorcyclists either need a motorcycle-only license or a valid driver’s license with a Class M endorsement. Typically, riders must pass a vision test, knowledge exam, and skills examination to receive proper authorization to ride in the state.
What happens if you don’t have a Class M endorsement? If you are in a collision, the other side could use this fact against you. They could argue you do not have adequate skills to operate a motorcycle, and this lack of skill contributed to your injuries.
Lane Usage
South Carolina law provides basic requirements for proper usage of a lane. Some of the important considerations include:
- Motorcyclists can ride two abreast (but not three abreast) in the same lane.
- Lane splitting is illegal in South Carolina.
- A motorcyclist cannot stay in the same lane to pass a vehicle ahead of it.
These rules protect the orderly flow of traffic. If you decide to lane split and get into an accident, then you could have partial or even full responsibility for the collision. That would mean reduced compensation or possibly no compensation if you were entirely at fault.
Head and Face Protection
To promote safety, the state requires that motorcyclists under 21 wear a helmet approved by the Department of Public Safety. If you are 21 or older, then no helmet is needed. Helmets reduce the risk of a serious brain injury, and failure to wear one might constitute negligence under the law.
Motorcyclists under age 21 also must have sufficient eye protection, which can take the form of approved goggles or an approved face shield. This law prevents debris from getting in your eyes and temporarily blinding you.
The state also requires windshields for motorcycles, which is another way to protect your face. If your bike lacks an approved windshield, then you might be blamed for a crash, especially if something like debris caused a distraction when it flew into your face.
Speak with a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
Snyder Heitman LLC has built a reputation for fierce advocacy on behalf of personal injury victims, including motorcyclists. We know that accidents are expensive, and many people are unable to work as they try to recover. Please schedule a consultation with our law firm.
A Greenville motorcycle accident lawyer can discuss your collision and injuries, while reviving possible legal compensation. By far, our clients are often hurt by negligent drivers who crash into them, and we can negotiate a settlement for your injuries. Our firm also represents clients in Spartanburg and Upstate South Carolina.
Sources:
lawserver.com/law/state/south-carolina/sc-code/south_carolina_code_56-5-3640
lawserver.com/law/state/south-carolina/sc-code/south_carolina_code_56-5-3660