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If you own a motorcycle (or are considering buying a bike), you are probably aware that there are different laws for motorcyclists in South Carolina. While you still have to comply with all of the basic rules of the road, like obeying the speed limit and stopping at red lights, there are also separate laws that apply exclusively to motorcyclists. These laws are designed to reduce the risk of accidents and keep motorcyclists as safe as possible.

In South Carolina, you must have a special license to operate a motorcycle and obey rules related to things like carrying passengers and carrying packages. Beyond these laws, you should also take basic safety precautions, like wearing a helmet and maintaining a safe speed, to reduce the risk of an accident. If you are in a crash, our South Carolina personal injury lawyers will fight to get you the compensation that you deserve for your injuries.

Based in Simpsonville, Brooks Derrick Accident and Injury Lawyers offers seasoned legal advocacy for clients throughout the region. We will take on the big insurance companies and work tirelessly to get you maximum compensation for your property damage, medical bills, pain and suffering, and other losses. Contact our law offices today to schedule a free consultation with a Simpsonville motorcycle accident attorney.

Must-Know South Carolina Motorcycle Laws

In South Carolina, motorcyclists have to follow the same rules of the road as all other motorists. However, motorcyclists also have to follow additional requirements. This starts with obtaining a special license, a Class M license, in order to operate a motorcycle legally in the state.

There are a host of other laws that apply to motorcycle riders in South Carolina. This includes:

• Motorcyclists cannot carry any packages, bundles, or other items that would prevent them from keeping both hands on the handlebars. 
• Motorcyclists can only ride on the permanent and regular seats attached to the vehicle.
• Motorcyclists must sit astride their seats, facing forward, with one leg on each side of the bike.
• Motorcyclists can only carry passengers on bikes that are equipped with the appropriate seats and footrests.
• Motorcyclists cannot carry any person in a position that would interfere with the operator’s view or ability to control the motorcycle.
• Motorcyclists cannot attach themselves or their vehicles to any other vehicles on the roadway.
• Motorcycle operators and passengers under the age of 21 must wear a protective helmet equipped with a neck or chin strap that is reflective on both sides. Motorcyclists and passengers over the age of 21 are not required to wear a helmet in the state of South Carolina.
• Lane-splitting, or riding between two lanes of traffic on a motorcycle, is illegal in South Carolina.
• Motorcyclists cannot ride more than 2 side-by-side in a single lane of traffic.
• Motorcyclists cannot pass in the same lane as the vehicle that they are overtaking.
• Motorcycles must be equipped with a license plate, a rearview mirror, reflectors, and working lights.

These rules are designed to increase safety and reduce the risk of motorcycle accidents. If you are in a crash on your bike, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against another driver or motorcyclist, a government agency, or even the manufacturer of your motorcycle or one of its parts. Our experienced Simpsonville motorcycle accident attorneys will evaluate your claim and help you get maximum compensation for your injuries.

Safety Tips for Motorcyclists in South Carolina

There are many possible causes of motorcycle accidents. Most commonly, motorcycle accidents occur because of things like:

• Distracted driving
• Speeding
• Improper turns
• Reckless driving
• Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs
• Driver fatigue
• Poor vehicle maintenance
• Road hazards
• Adverse weather conditions
• Driver inexperience
• Following too closely

While you can’t necessarily prevent all accidents as a motorcyclist, there are some steps that you can take to reduce the risk of being involved in a crash.

To start, make sure that you are properly educated on safe riding. A motorcycle safety course can provide a great foundation for avoiding accidents. Taking these courses as a novice or as an experienced rider may even reduce your insurance premiums.

Next, motorcyclists should always wear proper safety gear. This includes a helmet, even though helmets are not required for riders aged 21 or older under South Carolina law. According to the National Safety Council, motorcycle helmets are estimated to be 37% effective in preventing fatal injuries for motorcycle operators and 41% effective in preventing fatal injuries for passengers. Helmets also significantly reduce the risk of serious injury for drivers and passengers alike.

While the Department of Transportation (DOT) sets minimum standards for motorcycle helmets, you should ideally choose an SNELL-certified helmet. This third-party group certifies helmets through rigorous testing. While these helmets tend to be both more expensive and heavier, they are also the most protective option, which is incredibly important when it comes to preventing traumatic brain injuries and other serious injuries.

In addition to a properly-fitted helmet, motorcyclists should don other safety gear before heading out on the road. Gloves, jackets, and boots can also protect against road rash and lacerations in the event of an accident. Wearing long pants and long sleeves can also offer a layer of protection.

Once you’re out on the road, you should follow other basic safety precautions. Never get on your bike after you’ve been drinking or using any substances (including over-the-counter or prescription medications that may affect your judgment or reaction time). You should always maintain a safe speed and following distance.

Staying focused when you are on the road as a motorcyclist is particularly important. Poor road and weather conditions can be especially dangerous for motorcycles, so it is critical that you keep your eyes on the road and be alert to traffic around you.

Finally, make sure that your motorcycle is regularly and properly maintained.  Your tires should be replaced when the tread is worn and kept properly inflated. You should also check your brakes and get them replaced when necessary. Your owner’s manual can provide other tips on maintaining your bike, such as cleaning and lubing the chain, getting oil changes, and more.

Before you ride, you can give your bike a once-over to make sure that everything is in good working condition. The T-CLOCS inspection – tires, controls, lights, oil, chassis, and stands – is a good place to start. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation offers a great tutorial that you can use to guide you.

Of course, even the most safety-conscious motorcyclists can still be involved in accidents. In this situation, you might be able to pursue a claim against whoever was responsible for your crash. Being a safe driver and following all South Carolina motorcycle laws can actually help your claim and ensure that you get the money that you deserve for your injuries.

South Carolina is a comparative negligence state, which means that you can still file a lawsuit for your injuries if you were up to 50% at fault for the crash. However, your total compensation will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. Following motorcycle laws and safety tips can not only reduce the likelihood of being in an accident, but it can also bolster your claim if you are in a crash caused by another person.

Our law firm works hard to help our clients get top dollar for their injuries after car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, and more. We also offer free initial consultations so that you understand your rights and options for pursuing a claim. Reach out at any time to learn more about how we will fight for you.

Help for South Carolina Motorcycle Accident Victims

Before you get onto your motorcycle, you should have a good understanding of South Carolina’s motorcycle laws. You should also take safety precautions that go above and beyond these laws, like wearing a helmet even if you aren’t required to do so under the law. If you are in a crash, we will advocate for your right to full compensation.

At Brooks Derrick Accident and Injury Lawyers, we offer skilled legal representation to clients who have been harmed in all types of accidents, including on motorcycles. We handle all cases on a contingency fee basis, which means that you will never pay a fee unless we recover money for you. Reach out to our law firm at 864-531-7765 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free initial consultation with a Simpsonville motorcycle accident lawyer.