Riding Straight
Speed and the Motorcyclist
Motorcycle Checklist
Michigan Motor Vehicle Law
Training, Education and Licensure

MOTORCYCLE HELMET LAW
A clarification has been made to Michigan's motorcycle helmet law concerning the legal requirement to wear a helmet. On July 27, 2000, a new administrative rule took effect. A motorcyclist in Michigan has been and continues to be required to wear a D.O.T.-approved motorcycle helmet on his or her head when operating a motorcycle or when riding as a passenger on a motorcycle. This applies to all highways, roads, streets, and other thoroughfares in Michigan.

For more information, please visit the Michigan Department of State Police Motorcycle Helmet Law website at the following address: http://www.michigan.gov/msp/1,1607,7-123-1589_1711_4587-16062--,00.html

RIDING STRAIGHT

• Alcohol use is a significant factor in fatal motorcycle crashes.
• A six-year study of Michigan's fatal motorcycle crashes showed that as of 2002, 29.3% of all motorcyclists killed were under the influence of alcohol.
• Of the fatal crashes involving motorcyclists, 29% to 36% had a BAC over .08 g/dl.
• In Michigan, you are presumed guilty of operating under the influence of liquor (OUIL if you have a blood alcohol content of .08% or more).
• An OUIL first offense conviction could cost you up to $500 and/or 90 days in jail with your driver's license being revoked.

SPEED AND THE MOTORCYCLIST
Many times after a crash you will hear people comment on how fast a cyclist was traveling. While excess speed is an important factor, it is more serious when combined with alcohol and/or rider inexperience.

• More experienced cyclists react quicker in emergency situations.
• The speed and alcohol combination is especially deadly because alcohol slows reaction time.
• An impaired rider has to use emergency skills more often, but has less ability to perform them at any speed.

MOTORCYCLE CHECKLIST

• Helmet: Approved safety helmet that lets you see as far to the sides as necessary. Make sure the fit is snug and the helmet has no obvious defects such as cracks, loose padding or frayed straps. Also, never wear a helmet that has been involved in a crash or dropped on the ground. This could ruin the effectiveness of the helmet
• Eye and Face Protection: Use a plastic face shield or goggles to protect eyes from wind, dust, dirt, rain, insects, and stones. Make sure eye or face protection is free of scratches, made of material that does not shatter, and gives a clear view to either side.
• Tires: Check the air pressure before every ride.
• Fluids: Check gas, oil, broke fluid, and coolant (when applicable).
• Lights: Check brakelights, head- and taillights, and turn signals.
• Hydraulic Fluids: Check sight windows when accessible. At a minimum, check weekly.
• Clutch, Throttle and Brakes: Make sure they work smoothly. Throttle should snap back when let go. Brakes should feel firm and hold motorcycle when applied.
• Mirrors: Clean and adjust both mirrors before starting out.
• Horn: Try the horn. Make sure it works.

MICHIGAN MOTOR VEHICLE LAW
Every rider should be aware of all Michigan's motor vehicle laws, particularly those which apply specifically to motorcycles. These laws can be found in the Michigan Motorcycle Operator Manual available from the Secretary of State and can be obtained at any Secretary of State branch office.

Michigan law states that a motorcycle owner may never let a non-licensed person operate his/her motorcycle.

A frequently asked question by visitors to Michigan is whether the state has a law requiring helmets. Michigan has a mandatory helmet use law for all riders and passengers.

Michigan also requires motorcyclists to wear either shatterproof goggles, a face shield or a windshield to protect the eyes.

Training, Education and Licensure
Almost half of all motorcycle fatalities involved riders not properly licensed.

Michigan law requires a special endorsement to an operators license to drive a motorcycle. It is a misdemeanor to drive a motorcycle without an endorsement and can add points to your driving record.

If you are under 18 years of age, you must complete a rider education course approved by the Secretary of State before you can apply for a motorcycle permit. Although permit applicants over 18 years are not required to take an instruction course, it is highly recommended for new riders of all ages.

Training and education is an ongoing process for every rider and should not end with licensure. Contact your local Secretary of State branch office for additional information and for the nearest motorcycle safety course.

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