All motorcyclists in D.C. must follow The District’s strict laws. Among the most critical rules are the requirements that all riders have a motorcycle endorsement on their license, wear a safety helmet and eye protection, and ensure that their vehicle is registered and insured.
D.C.’s motorcycle laws are designed to protect riders and all road users from coming to harm. The experienced motorcycle accident attorneys at Marks & Harrison are passionate about protecting the health and lives of those in our community. That’s why we have compiled this helpful guide to answer some of the most common questions we hear about motorcycle laws in Washington, D.C.
What Is Needed to Ride a Motorcycle in D.C.?
To legally operate a motorcycle in Washington, D.C., riders must meet several requirements. These include having:
- A valid driver’s license with a motorcycle endorsement
- Proper registration and insurance for the motorcycle
- A DOT-approved helmet
- Eye protection (either a face shield or goggles)
- Proper safety equipment on the motorcycle, including working headlights, taillights, turn signals, and mirrors
Although the law does not require it, riders should also consider wearing hi-vis materials and protective gear such as gloves, boots, and sturdy clothing to enhance their safety on the road. The lack of an enclosed structure around a motorcyclist can make them vulnerable to life-altering injuries in the event of an accident. Making yourself visible can reduce the risk of being involved in a crash, and protective clothing can reduce the severity of injuries should a collision occur.
What Is Required to Obtain a Washington, D.C. Motorcycle Endorsement?
To get a motorcycle endorsement in Washington, D.C., you must fulfill the following requirements:
- Hold a valid D.C. driver’s license
- Be at least 18 years old
- Pass the D.C. Motorcycle Knowledge Test
- Complete the required D.C. Motorcycle Demonstration Course
The knowledge test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe riding practices. The demonstration course teaches skills such as how to operate the motorcycle, including starting, stopping, turning, and maneuvering through traffic.
What Are the Minimum Insurance Requirements for a Motorcycle in Washington, D.C.?
In Washington, D.C., motorcycles must be insured with the following minimum coverage:
- $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury liability
- $10,000 for property damage liability
- $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage
- $5,000 with a $200 deductible for uninsured motorist property damage coverage
While these are the minimum requirements, riders may want to consider higher coverage limits to protect themselves financially in case of a serious accident. Contact our Washington DC motorcycle accident lawyer today.
What Is Lane Splitting, and Is It Allowed in Washington, D.C.?
Lane splitting involves riding a motorcycle between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic. In Washington, D.C., there are no laws explicitly prohibiting lane splitting. However, while you might receive a citation for lane splitting, no laws expressly allow the practice. Although no law specifically forbids lane splitting, D.C. has rules that govern passing other vehicles in traffic.
It is worth noting if you are lane splitting when an accident occurs, there may be significant consequences for your eligibility to recover compensation. In Washington, D.C., motorcycle riders are allowed to pursue compensation if someone injures them in an accident. However, the motorcycle rider must have been less than 50 percent at fault for the crash to obtain compensation. Insurance companies or courts might use lane splitting to undervalue or try to deny your claim.
Is a License Also Required for a Three-Wheeled Motorcycle or Scooter in D.C.?
The specific license requirements for three-wheeled motorcycles and scooters in D.C. depend on the vehicle type:
- For three-wheeled motorcycles with engines larger than 50cc operating over 30 mph, riders need a regular driver’s license with a motorcycle endorsement.
- For three-wheeled motorcycles with engines 50cc or smaller operating no greater than 30 mph, riders only need a regular driver’s license.
- Riders typically do not need a driver’s license for an electric scooter.
Electric scooters have their own certain traffic laws they must follow. Riders should still wear proper safety gear, including helmets. Riding without a helmet can increase your risk of suffering catastrophic injuries in a traffic collision.
Is It Illegal to Park My Motorcycle on the Sidewalk in D.C.?
It is illegal to park a motorcycle on the sidewalk in Washington, D.C., just like other vehicles. Motorcyclists must park their bikes in designated parking spaces or areas. Parking on sidewalks can result in fines and potentially having your motorcycle towed.
D.C. does offer some benefits for motorcycle parking:
- Motorcycles can park in special metered motorcycle spaces.
- Multiple motorcycles can share a single parking space as long as they don’t extend beyond the space’s boundaries.
- Some areas have designated motorcycle parking zones.
Always check local signage and parking regulations to ensure you are parking legally and avoiding potential fines or towing. When in doubt, park in a traditional parking space.
Contact a Washington, D.C., Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Obeying D.C.’s motorcycle laws can help keep every ride safe and fun. However, even riders who obey every law to the letter can be vulnerable if other road users are negligent. When another driver fails to yield the right of way, goes over the speed limit, or simply fails to notice a motorcycle on the road, a rider can suffer severe injuries.
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident in Washington, D.C., the skilled attorneys at Marks & Harrison are here to help you seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and other losses. Our firm has been a champion for injured individuals in The District for over a century, and we understand what it takes to get the results you deserve. Call us today or contact us online for a free consultation with a motorcycle accident lawyer in Washington, D.C.
