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With over 16,000 miles of highways connecting Little Rock to the rest of the U.S., motorcycle travel is common across the region, along with collisions. If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, compliance with Little Rock motorcycle traffic laws plays a critical role in determining liability and compensation.
Arkansas does not require motorcyclists to wear helmets, but other traffic laws are designed to protect drivers and passengers. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, it is important to speak with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney. A knowledgeable lawyer could help you understand your rights, assess the specifics of your case, and pursue fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
In Little Rock, like all the rest of the state, traffic laws for motorcyclists are divided into two main categories: licensing and equipment requirements.
Motorcyclists must meet specific licensing requirements to legally operate their vehicles on public roads. A Class M license is required for all motorcycle operators, and riders under 18 years old must complete an approved motorcycle safety course to obtain this license. A Class MD license is designed for riders between the ages of 14 and 16 who operate vehicles with an engine capacity of 250cc or less. Class MD licenses prohibit passengers. Regardless of class, individuals under the age of eight cannot be passengers on a motorcycle.
Motorcycle drivers should also have an instruction permit indicating they passed a vision, knowledge, and skills test before receiving a license. Motorcycles must have a designated passenger seat, and drivers are restricted to a single passenger.
Motorcycle riders must use daytime headlights for improved visibility and wear eye protection, such as goggles, glasses, or face shields. Other requirements include:
Turn signals are not required, but are highly recommended. Motorcyclists must use recognized arm signals if they do not have operating turn signals.
Motorcyclists operating in Little Rock are legally required to carry liability insurance. Failure to comply with mandated insurance coverage can result in license suspension and fines. At a minimum, state motorcycle insurance policies must cover $25,000 for bodily injury or death per person and $50,000 per accident. A $25,000 minimum coverage is mandated for property damage per accident.
Arkansas is an at-fault accident state, requiring injured parties to prove that another party’s negligence caused their accident in order to recover compensation. Establishing fault typically involves a detailed investigation and evidence gathering.
After a motorcycle accident, you should collect contact information from the other drivers involved and their insurance companies, identify possible witnesses for follow-up or witness statements, and obtain any video footage of the accident from surrounding businesses and traffic officials, if available. In addition, take photographs of the accident scene and the surrounding area, as they could provide vital information on road and weather conditions that contributed to the accident.
Every time a driver gets behind the wheel, they agree to a legal duty of care to operate their vehicle responsibly and follow all traffic laws. This duty is meant to protect everyone on the road. When a Little Rock driver fails to adhere to these traffic mandates, such as running stop signs, failing to yield, or speeding, they have breached their duty of care and may be considered negligent for causing a motorcycle wreck. You may pursue compensation if you can prove that someone else’s negligence caused your accident and subsequent injuries.
Accident victims have three years from the accident date to file a claim in Arkansas. Contacting an experienced attorney as soon as possible could ensure that critical deadlines are met, and important evidence is preserved.
A knowledgeable motorcycle accident lawyer could evaluate your case, help gather the documentation you need, and explain your legal options. With the right representation, you could increase your chances of securing compensation for your losses.
At Mays, Byrd, & O’Guinn, we understand the serious impact a violation of Little Rock motorcycle traffic laws can have on accident victims and their families. As a family-owned business, we are committed to helping you get the justice and compensation you deserve. If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, schedule a free consultation today to explore your legal options.