motorcycle-1829461_1920Riding a motorcycle provides an exhilarating experience unlike anything else. While solo adventures promote a sense of freedom on the open road, riding with passengers allows you to share the excitement.

However, before you start inviting friends and family members to hop on the back of your bike, it’s important to make sure you understand the law regarding motorcycle passengers, as well as the safety precautions you should take when riding with others.

How Many People Can Ride on a Motorcycle in New Jersey?

The New Jersey statute on motorcycle passengers states that two people can legally ride on a bike as long as it is specifically designed to carry more than one person. The passenger may travel along with the operator on the permanent seat of the motorcycle, or sit on another seat that is securely attached to the rear or side of the operator. Passengers must also be able to have their feet firmly planted on the footrests.

Tips for Safely Riding with Passengers

Although motorcycles are fun and economical, it’s no secret they’re a risk to ride. Motorcycle accidents occur every day, resulting in serious injuries and death. To keep you and your passengers out of harm’s way as much as possible, it’s crucial that you follow a few safety tips:

  • First of all, it’s best not to travel with passengers on your motorcycle unless you’re an experienced rider. Having another body on your bike will change the way it handles, so you must know how to properly maneuver into turns, accelerate, and stop with the added weight.
  • It’s also recommended that you take a motorcycle safety course and spend time practicing riding with passengers in empty areas before venturing out on high-traffic streets and highways.
  • If your passenger is not familiar with being on the back of a bike, make sure you educate him or her on wearing a helmet, leaning to make turns, and sitting still to prevent loss of balance when the motorcycle is stopped.

In the event you and your passenger are injured in a motorcycle accident through no fault of your own, you can count on Lependorf & Silverstein, P.C., to review your case carefully and offer expert legal advice about pursuing compensation. We can be reached at (609) 240-0040.

The firm’s principals, Gabriel R. Lependorf and David E. Silverstein, have each been representing injured victims in the State of New Jersey for over thirty years.

Call Our Office At (609) 240-0040 Today for Help