Motorcycle Rules of the Road in Idaho

Driving laws are a subject of constant review in almost every part of the world, and failure to keep up with the changes could land you in trouble. While there are standard rules that govern motorcyclists and vehicle drivers in general, other rules vary from state to state. If you find yourself riding your motorcycle on foreign roads, the most important thing to do is to acquaint yourself with the laws of the land.

Requirements for all motorcyclists in Idaho

Idaho is an exciting place for motorcyclists, but as with any other state, road rules apply. But before looking at the rules, it is a requirement of the law for all riders to meet the following:

• Carry a valid Idaho Driver’s License
• Have all the motorcycle registration details
• Ensure the motorcycle license plate is well displayed
• Possess a liability insurance

First and foremost, the above requirements are non-negotiable in Idaho State and must be met before you are allowed to ride or drive. For those under the age of 21, an Idaho Skills Training Advantage for Riders course must be completed, after which registration and acquisition of liability insurance are done. Liability insurance is very crucial, especially for motorcyclists, as bike accidents account for more than 35 percent above other vehicle accidents. With a valid cover, you’re protected from claims that might result from injuries and damages to other people and their property.

Remember, following the laid-down rules can work to your advantage in case of an accident. Your motorbike accident lawyer will ask some of these questions before processing your case.

Let’s now look at some of the rules of the road and specific motorcycle laws in Idaho state.

Motorcycle Helmet Laws.

Interestingly, no law requires motorcyclists to wear helmets in Idaho, but it comes down to common sense. A helmet is an essential gear for riders using fast highways and roads everywhere in the world. It is a safety gear that should always be a necessity as it can save your life.

However, Idaho motorcyclists law requires riders below the age of 18 to wear a helmet every time they are riding on bikes.

Special rider’s gear.

Motorcyclists must wear reflective jackets that are highly visible by other road users from a considerable distance. These jackets or reflector straps must be worn on top of other gear for purposes of visibility, especially for those who drive at night.

Sharing lanes on the roadways of Idaho.

Naturally, motorcyclists are at a much greater risk of an accident, which makes lane sharing one of the most crucial laws never to break when you are out riding on the road. Sharing of lanes is considered extremely dangerous, and to some degree — deadly.

Owing to the danger posed by motorcyclists when they cut off other road users on the same lane, it is against the law to share lanes in Idaho. As a bike rider, sharing lanes is only allowed when it is just you and one other motorcyclist.

The ‘Red Light’ Law.

Drivers and other road users must pay full attention to the ‘Red Light’ law as Idaho road rules legally allow motorcyclists to safely ride through a red light. However, they can only do so if they have waited for one complete cycle at the red light. If your motorcycle is not recognized by the vehicle sensor at the stop light, you are legally authorized to go through.

Special laws for motorcyclists using an instruction permit.

There are a few specialty laws that may apply for drivers using motorcycle instruction permits on Idaho roads. It is a basic requirement to obtain a motorcycle permit even before a driver’s license. In this respect, drivers using permits instead of driver’s licenses can only ride during the day. For them to qualify for riding any time of the day and night, they must obtain a valid driving license.

However, motorcyclists cannot carry any passengers at night and cannot ride on the freeway.

Other important Idaho motorcycle laws to consider.

• Passengers must sit on their allocated passenger seat or in a sidecar attached to the motorcycle
• The bike’s horn must be loud enough to be heard from 200 feet away
• Drivers are not allowed to haul luggage big enough to compromise their balance while on the road
• External motorcycle muffler should not overshadow the one installed by the original manufacturer’s