A Guide to the Michigan Laws for Motorcycle Passengers

Once you know the exhilaration of riding a motorcycle, it’s natural to want to share the experience with friends and family. However, before you extend that invitation, it’s important to be aware of the Michigan motorcycle passenger laws. 

Here’s what you need to know to make sure your rides are safe, legal and enjoyable for you and your passengers.

Michigan Helmet Laws for Motorcycle Passengers

Since 2012, when Michigan’s mandatory helmet law was repealed, motorcycle operators and passengers have been legally allowed to ride without a helmet provided they meet certain conditions. 

According to current Michigan law, a motorcycle passenger who wants to ride without a helmet must meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 21 years old
• Have at least $20,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP) medical benefits in addition to the liability insurance required for all motorcyclists 

Motorcycle operators and passengers under 21 years old must wear a helmet at all times.

In addition, individuals younger than 19 must wear a helmet if operating a moped on a public roadway. 

Finally, all helmets worn by Michigan motorcycle passengers of any age must comply with U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) standards.

Helmets Save Lives

Motorcycle operators and passengers should wear helmets whenever they ride, even if they are not legally required to do so. Numerous studies show that motorcyclists who wear helmets are less likely to sustain fatal or severe head injuries in the event of a crash. 

Visit the following post for more information about Michigan Motorcycle Helmet Laws.

Do Michigan Motorcycle Passenger Laws Set Age Restrictions For Children?

A few states have laws that prohibit young children from riding as passengers on motorcycles. However, Michigan has no age restrictions for motorcycle passengers. 

The only potential age-related restriction is that passengers must be tall enough to rest their feet on the designated pegs or foot rests. However, this statute does not apply to those who cannot comply because of a permanent physical disability.

Nevertheless, because of their size, children are more likely to be seriously or fatally injured in a motorcycle crash. So, if you are carrying a child on your bike, make sure they are wearing proper safety gear that includes a helmet and protective clothing.

How to Ride Safely with a Motorcycle Passenger

It’s better to gain experience riding solo before you take someone for a ride on your motorcycle. A passenger changes the bike’s center of gravity and adds considerable weight to the rear. This increases acceleration time and stopping distance. Therefore, riders who carry passengers have to be extra attentive to the road and well-prepared for unexpected situations.

Here are some other tips for riding with a passenger:

• Accelerate smoothly to keep your front end level
• Use more force when applying the brakes and allow extra stopping time 
• Before you ride, decide how to communicate with each other using taps or hand signals
• Make sure your passenger is dressed appropriately, including long pants and gloves
• Encourage your passenger to wear a properly fitted helmet that meets U.S. Department of Transportation standards 
• Set a good example by wearing proper safety gear and clothing 

In general, keeping the ride as smooth as possible will enable you and your passenger to have a safer, more enjoyable experience.

How to be a Safe and Helpful Passenger

• Mount and dismount from the left, non-muffler side
• Wait until the driver tells you when to get on and off the bike
• When cornering, lean in the direction of the turn
• Put your hands on either side of the driver’s waist and hold on firmly
• Keep your feet on the foot pegs when the motorcycle stops

Get the Bernstein Biker Advantage®

Many of our lawyers and staff members ride motorcycles. Therefore, we take these cases personally because we know first-hand the joys and challenges of riding a bike. We also realize how devastating a motorcycle accident can be. And, unlike most riders, we understand the complex legal issues surrounding motorcycle accidents. We know what is required to win your case, and we will fight to make sure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Motorcycle passenger laws are complicated, but finding the right motorcycle accident lawyer is simple. 

Click the button below to fill out a quick form, or Call 1-800-CALL-SAM today for a free, remote no-obligation consultation from the safety of your home.