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Riding a motorcycle down the Missouri open roads is the best way to experience the state's wonders while avoiding heavy traffic in its busy cities.
However, local laws state that riders must meet certain requirements to operate one, including having a motorcycle endorsement, license, or permit.
Although different, all three documents have the same goal: to reduce the risk of motorcycle accidents. Therefore, residents and tourists should know each term and understand their differences if they plan to ride one.
Understanding What a Motorcycle Endorsement Is and Its Requirements
Under Missouri law, a motorcycle endorsement is a document that can be added to driver's licenses or credentials.
Authorities grant endorsements to people who already have driver's licenses but want to operate a motorcycle or motor tricycle on public roads.
In this sense, these are the requirements that an individual must meet to obtain a motorcycle endorsement in Missouri:
Be at least 16 years old
Have a valid Missouri driver's license
Pass tests to demonstrate motorcycle-related knowledge and skills
Motorcycle Endorsement Vs. License
Endorsements are issued to exempt some restrictions. In other words, these documents qualify people to do something they couldn't without an endorsement, such as ride a motorcycle, even if they have a driver's license.
To issue endorsements on driver's licenses, authorities must consider the applicant's need to use a motorcycle for certain purposes.
Regular car licenses, for example, often allow drivers to legally carry an unlimited number of passengers. However, it would be unlawful when riding a motorcycle.
Those who wish to drive a motorcycle carrying more than one passenger need a license endorsement.
Motorcyclists planning to operate commercial motorcycles may also be required to have an endorsement.
Process for Applying for a Motorcycle Endorsement in Missouri
Once they determine if the endorsement is the right document, applicants must pass a motorcycle test, as well as vision, road sign, and skills examinations.
Examiners usually test people's knowledge of traffic laws, skills, and abilities to ride a motorcycle before granting an endorsement.
Missouri Motorcycle Safety Program
Those who live in Missouri and want to get a license, depending on the CC, or endorsement to operate motorcycles can also take a basic but practical course that teaches everything from scratch.
The Missouri Motorcycle Safety Program typically includes hands-on training for motorcycles in controlled environments.
Designed for people with little or no experience, these courses offer personal and professional training to potential motorcycle riders.
At the end of the total instructional time, students must undergo a skills assessment. If they meet the required standards, riders can receive a completion card, waiving all required testing for endorsements.
Benefits of Having a Motorcycle Endorsement in Missouri
Missouri's residents with driver's licenses can operate motorcycles or motor tricycles if they add an endorsement to their documentation.
As mentioned, endorsements allow riders to do certain things they couldn't with a traditional driver's license, including riding motorcycles and carrying passengers.
Besides that, there's another benefit that motorcycle endorsement holders can enjoy. Missouri regulations previously stated that anyone riding or operating a motorcycle or motor tricycle must wear headgear approved by the US Department of Transportation (DOT).
However, the state adopted a new law that enables riders aged 26 and older to operate or ride a motorcycle without a helmet if they have a motorcycle license or endorsement and have insurance that covers injuries in the event of an accident. However, the law is different for child passengers.
Motorcycle Safety Requirements in Missouri
Although a license or endorsement provides some benefits to riders, all individuals who lawfully operate motorcycles on public roads or highways must have equipment such as:
Taillight
Headlight
Brake light
Horn
Front brakes
Rear brakes
Muffler
Riders are also required to have motorcycle insurance with bodily injury liability coverage and property damage liability coverage.
What If a Rider Without Motorcycle Endorsement Crashes and Injures Others?
Anyone who is hurt in a motorcycle crash can seek help from an experienced personal injury attorney and take legal action against a rider.
In Missouri, motorcycle laws can affect cases and favor victims, granting them compensation if riders do not comply with regulations or safety requirements, violate traffic laws, or do not have the necessary documentation.
Powell Law Firm's legal team of top motorcycle accident attorneys in St Louis knows how the Missouri legal system work and is ready to help all people whose lives have been affected by motorcycle riders' negligence or wrongdoing.
Victims of motorcycle accidents are encouraged to call (314) 470-1374 and get a free consultation at Powell Law Firm today!
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