Motorcycles are a popular mode of transportation, but are not often considered a family vehicle due to their often dangerous reputation and low capacity for passengers. However, it is not uncommon for a parent or other adult to bring a child to ride on the back of a motorcycle. Sometimes, children riding along on a motorcycle is for transportation, but it could also be for convenience or simply an exciting treat for the child. However, this may raise a question for many parents. How old does a child need to be to ride on the back of a motorcycle in Mississippi?
Motorcycles are fun and sometimes convenient modes of transportation, but they can often be dangerous in an accident if riders are not properly equipped. A young child on a motorcycle could be vulnerable to severe injury or even death. Understanding how old a child should be before riding on the back of a motorcycle may help parents or responsible adults avoid catastrophic injury and protect the child. Mississippi law may have certain restrictions regarding motorcycle riders in the state.
An experienced Mississippi motorcycle accident lawyer from Lott Law may be able to help clarify motorcycle regulations in Mississippi. Call the office today at (228) 215-2787 to schedule a consultation.
Legal Age to Ride a Motorcycle as a Passenger
While this may surprise many, few states have a legal riding age for passengers on the back of a motorcycle. Mississippi, in particular, has no legal restrictions for the age of motorcycle passengers; however, it is recommended that the individual be tall enough to reach the footrests for safety reasons. This means that a child is legally allowed to ride on the back of a motorcycle in Mississippi, even if they are young. Being legally allowed to ride on a motorcycle as a passenger does not necessarily make the experience safe or advisable. Young children may be at greater risk of motorcycle crash-related injury. A sidecar may provide a safer option for young children as motorcycle passengers.
Safety Considerations for Motorcycle Passengers
Motorcycles can be incredibly dangerous in an accident due to the lack of safety features compared to a car, particularly for children. Children’s bodies are still growing and developing, which may make them vulnerable to injuries in a motorcycle accident. Some of the most common injuries in motorcycle accidents include broken bones, severe bruising, and road rash, and can even involve traumatic brain injuries. Children inflicted with these injuries may suffer developmental issues in the future, particularly when considering head injuries.
One of the primary safety considerations for anybody riding on a motorcycle is wearing protective equipment. Helmets are vital pieces of motorcycle gear that help guard against traumatic brain injuries and other related injuries. Having a helmet that covers the whole head and fits snugly may help reduce the risk of injury for children riding on the back of a motorcycle. Additionally, protective gear like padding, thick legwear, and gloves can help reduce the risk of road rash and other soft tissue damage.
Mississippi Motorcycle Traffic Laws
It may be legal for children to ride on the back of a motorcycle in Mississippi, but this does not mean that there are no safety regulations for motorcyclists at all. The Mississippi Department of Public Safety regulates the use of motorcycles and provides guidelines for proper behavior on the road. Understanding motorcycle safety laws, particularly when a child rides on the back of a motorcycle, can help prevent catastrophic injuries and protect the safety of everyone on the road. Motorcycle accidents can cause incredible amounts of damage, including medical, physical, and psychological damage.
A skilled Mississippi motorcycle accident attorney from Lott Law may be able to help evaluate a motorcycle accident case.
Licensing
One of the primary motorcycle traffic laws regards licensure. As with most motor vehicles, it is illegal to operate a motorcycle without a valid license. However, the process of obtaining a motorcycle license involves more steps than a standard class R Mississippi driver’s license. Motorcyclists must obtain what is called a “motorcycle endorsement” on their existing license, which may require written and riding tests. Individuals must be fifteen or older to obtain a learner’s permit, and sixteen or older to obtain a license. However, out-of-state individuals with an existing and valid motorcycle endorsement may not be required to retake any tests.
Helmet Law
In Mississippi, helmets are required for all riders on all motorcycle-type vehicles. While many states only require helmets for younger riders and others may only require helmets for certain types of vehicles, this is not the case in Mississippi. All riders of all ages are required by law to wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. This includes children who ride on the back of a motorcycle.
Drunk Driving
As would likely be expected, drunk driving laws that apply to standard drivers also apply to motorcycle riders. However, the stakes of drunk driving are much higher for motorcyclists are much higher than for other drivers. The fatality rate for drunk motorcycle drivers is often higher than the fatality rate for drunk drivers in cars. This is generally because motorcycles require much greater physical control to operate than a car. While cars require drivers to make accurate judgment calls, manage distance and space, and avoid collisions, motorcycles require all this as well as balance, physical control of the bike, and adjusting for winds and weather conditions.
Speak with a Mississippi Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today
In conclusion, Mississippi law does allow children to ride on the back of a motorcycle. However, the legality of the issue is not likely to be the final word. Motorcycle accidents can be incredibly dangerous, and if the child is not sufficiently protected, they may suffer severe injuries. Adequate and reasonable protection on a motorcycle may not fully protect an individual from injury in a motorcycle accident. As such, it may be inadvisable for young children to ride on the back of a motorcycle for long distances. Choosing to allow a child to ride on the back of a motorcycle may be a decision best suited for the parent of the child and their confidence in the adult driving the motorcycle. In the event of a motorcycle accident, a skilled Mississippi motorcycle accident lawyer from Lott Law may be able to help recover damages from the crash. Schedule a free initial consultation with an attorney today by calling the office at (228) 215-2787.