Your Guide to Arkansas Motorcycle Laws

The Short Answer …

For your safety and the safety of others, it’s important to understand the state’s motorcycle laws before you ride. Arkansas offers a Class M and restricted Class MD motorcycle license as well as a learner’s permit. The state requires riders to pass a road skills assessment or complete a state-approved motorcycle safety course. Here’s an overview of the state’s motorcycle laws, including helmet requirements, licensing rules, and special restrictions for minors and passengers.

Key Takeaways

• Arkansas does not require motorcycle helmets for riders aged 21 or older, but all riders must wear eye protection.
• New riders must pass a written exam, skills test, and vision assessment to earn their endorsement.
• A state-approved training course is required for riders under age 18, and it can waive the skills test for other motorcyclists.
• A restricted Class MD is available for riders aged 14 or 15. They’re limited to bikes up to 250cc, and they may not carry passengers.
• Motorcyclists must carry a minimum liability insurance of 25/50/25. Personal injury protection and other coverage is optional.
• Motorcyclists must follow the same traffic laws as other drivers, and lane splitting is not permitted.

Does Arkansas Have Motorcycle Helmet Laws?

Yes, Arkansas does have motorcycle helmet laws. Per Arkansas Code § 27-20-104, riders under age 21 are required to wear protective headgear if they are operating a motorcycle or riding as a passenger. Riders aged 21 or older are not required to wear a helmet although it’s strongly advised and can greatly reduce the risk of fatal head injuries in case of an accident.

Should You Wear a Motorcycle Helmet?

Even though helmets are not mandatory for all riders, wearing one is strongly recommended. Helmets have been shown to reduce the risk of head injuries and fatalities in motorcycle accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that helmets are up to 42% effective in preventing motorcycle fatalities and up to 69% effective in preventing traumatic brain injuries.

Other Protective Gear for Motorcyclists

All riders must wear eye protection while operating a motorcycle in Arkansas regardless of their age. Eyewear must be scratch-free and securely fastened to provide a clear view.

Besides helmets and eye protection, it’s strongly advised to wear other protective gear, such as gloves, over-ankle boots, heavy pants or chaps, kidney belts, and leather jackets to prevent road rash and other injuries.

Arkansas Motorcycle License Requirements

To legally operate a motorcycle in Arkansas, riders aged 16 or older must obtain a Class M license or a motorcycle endorsement on their regular driver’s license. To receive a license, applicants must pass a vision test, a written knowledge test, and a practical skills test. Here’s what’s required:

• To secure a motorcycle learner’s permit, riders must pass a written knowledge test. This permit allows you to practice your skills with a licensed rider under certain conditions.
• The text step is to pass a knowledge test covering traffic laws and motorcycle-specific safety practices. There’s also a practical skills assessment to ensure that you can operate the motorcycle safely.
• Many riders choose to complete a state-approved motorcycle safety course. In addition to teaching valuable skills, this course can waive the on-road skills assessment.
• All riders under age 18 must complete a state-approved motorcycle safety course.
• Once approved, your motorcycle endorsement is valid for 8 years.

What’s Arkansas’ Class MD Motorcycle License?

Motorcycle riders aged 14 or 15 can secure limited riding privileges by applying for a Class MD license. Here’s what’s involved:

• Applicants must pass a vision test, a written exam, and a practical skills assessment.
• A Class MD license is good for motorcycles up to 250cc.
• Operators with a Class MD license are prohibited from carrying passengers.

Motorcycle Insurance Requirements in Arkansas

Arkansas motorcycle laws require all operators to carry liability insurance. The minimum 25/50/25 coverage requirements are as follows:

• $25,000 for bodily injury or death of 1 person in an accident.
• $50,000 for total bodily injury or death per accident.
• $25,000 for property damage per accident.

Failure to carry the required insurance can result in fines and suspension of your motorcycle registration. You should also consider purchasing optional coverage, such as bodily injury liability, property damage liability, and personal injury protection. Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can help pay for bills if you are struck or injured by a hit-and-run motorist or uninsured driver.

Motorcycle Equipment Laws

To be street legal in Arkansas, motorcycles and trikes must meet specific equipment standards described in Arkansas Code § 27-20-104. Motorcycles must have the following equipment:

• Headlights, tail lights, and brake lights (Daytime headlights are required)
• Hand- or foot-operated brakes
• A rear reflector
• Horn
• Muffler to limit noise levels
• Electrical turn signals
• Handholds, footrests, and a seat if carrying a passenger

By ensuring your motorcycle complies with these equipment standards, you can ride confidently knowing you are both legally compliant and safer on Arkansas roads.

Motorcycle Passenger Laws

Arkansas law allows motorcycle operators to carry up to 1 passenger as long as they have a properly sized seat and designated footrests. There are a few other requirements per Arkansas Code § 27-20-110 and the state’s Motorcycle Operator Manual:

• Passengers under 21 must wear a helmet.
• Operators under age 16 are not allowed to carry a passenger on a motorcycle or motorized bicycle.
• Per Arkansas Code § 27-20-118, children under the age of 8 are not permitted to ride a motorcycle as a passenger, except in parades.
• No more than 2 people are allowed on a motorcycle at a time.

Drunk Driving Laws for Motorcyclists in Arkansas

In Arkansas, motorcyclists are subject to the same DUI laws as motorists. Riders aged 21 or older may face charges if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher. For riders under 21, the limit is 0.02% per the state’s zero tolerance law. Penalties for riding under the influence can include fines, license suspension, and possible jail time. Repeat offenders face more severe consequences.

Is Lane Splitting Legal in Arkansas?

Arkansas does not have a specific statute addressing lane splitting by motorcycles. However, Arkansas Code § 27-51-302 states that motorists shall drive entirely within a single lane and shall not be moved from the lane until the driver has determined that movement can be made safely. Although this statute is open to interpretation, lane splitting and traffic filtering are generally considered illegal.

What Happens if You’re Injured in a Motorcycle Accident in Arkansas?

If you’re injured in a motorcycle accident in Arkansas, it’s essential to understand your rights and legal options. Arkansas follows a fault-based insurance system for motor vehicle accidents, meaning that the at-fault party is likely responsible for damages. Common damages you can claim include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. To protect your claim and right to compensation, follow these steps after a motorcycle accident:

1. Do not leave the scene of the accident.
2. If possible, move your motorcycle off the road or away from traffic.
3. Notify law enforcement if the accident involves injuries or property damage.
4. Ensure that an official accident report is filed.
5. Seek medical attention at the scene or immediately afterwards.
6. Collect insurance information from the other driver.
7. Ask witnesses for contact details.
8. Take photos to document injuries, property damage, and road conditions.
9. Notify your insurance company as soon as possible.
10. Consult a motorcycle accident lawyer to help ensure you’re fairly compensated.

Rights and Legal Options for Injured Arkansas Motorcyclists

Injured motorcyclists have the right to seek compensation from the at-fault driver. You can file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company or file a personal injury lawsuit. It’s important to gather evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records, to support your claim.

Contact an Arkansas Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Understanding Arkansas motorcycle laws and navigating the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be complex. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can help you understand your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Arkansas, contact The Niblock Law Firm for a free consultation to discuss your case and legal options.