If you ride a motorcycle in Tennessee, it’s worth taking the time to understand the unique rules that apply to riders in the state. Some of these are specific to bikes and can carry severe consequences if they are violated. Further, if you’re ever involved in a Nashville motorcycle accident, a violation could also be used against you to potentially eliminate your compensation under Tennessee’s comparative fault law.
Here is a rundown of the most important motorcycle laws in the state and what they mean for you on the road.
Helmet Requirements
Tennessee has a universal helmet law. Under TCA § 55-9-302, every motorcycle rider and passenger is required to wear a DOT-approved crash helmet at all times while on the road. Approved helmets must meet standards from one of the following: the U.S. Department of Transportation (FMVSS 218), the Snell Foundation, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CSPM), or the Southern Impact Research Center (SIRC).
Violating the helmet law is a Class C misdemeanor, which can carry a fine of up to $50 and up to 30 days in jail. Beyond the legal penalties, not wearing a helmet after an accident could hurt your injury claim. The other side may argue that your injuries would have been less severe if you had been wearing one.
Lane Splitting Is Illegal
Lane splitting, which involves riding between lanes of traffic, is prohibited in Tennessee under TCA § 55-8-182. Motorcyclists must remain within their lane and cannot weave between vehicles, even in heavy or stopped traffic.
If you’re involved in an accident while lane splitting, the insurance company will almost certainly try to use it against you. Per the aforementioned modified comparative fault law in Tennessee, being assigned 50% or more of the fault means you recover nothing. A lane splitting violation could easily push you past that threshold.
That said, motorcyclists do have the right to full use of a lane; no other vehicle is allowed to crowd you out or share your lane without your consent. Two motorcycles may ride side by side in the same lane, but only if both riders agree to do so.
Equipment Requirements
Tennessee law requires motorcycles to be equipped with specific safety features. These include:
- Daytime headlight use at all times
- At least one rearview mirror securely mounted to the bike
- Footrests for both the rider and any passenger
- A functioning muffler (exhaust cutouts are prohibited)
- Eye protection for the rider and passenger if the motorcycle does not have a windshield
Riding without the required equipment can result in a citation and may also be used as evidence of negligence if a crash occurs.
Passenger Rules
If you’re carrying a passenger, your motorcycle must be specifically designed to hold two riders. It must also have a seat and footrests for the passenger. There is no minimum age for motorcycle passengers in Tennessee, but all passengers are required to wear a DOT-approved helmet just like the driver.
Contact Woodard Injury Law for Help After a Tennessee Motorcycle Accident
Following Tennessee’s motorcycle laws isn’t just about avoiding tickets; it’s about protecting your legal rights and interests in the event of a motorcycle accident. Given how strict Tennessee’s comparative fault system is, a minor infraction could cost you your entire case.
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle crash, contact Woodard Injury Law today at (615) 640-3648 for a free consultation. We have recovered millions of dollars for our clients to date and will work just as hard on your case.