Riding a motorcycle is thrilling, but it comes with unique risks. Motorcycles do not provide the structural protection of a car, making riders more vulnerable in the event of a crash. In 2024, the majority of motorcycle crashes in North Dakota resulted in serious injury or death.
Success in reaching our Vision Zero goal depends on both riders and motorists making responsible choices. High-risk factors continue to include excessive speed, impairment, and a lack of protective gear.
Understanding the law is the first step toward safety. In North Dakota, motorcyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as all other drivers:
- Full Lane Use: Motorcycles are entitled to the full use of a traffic lane. Drivers must not crowd or attempt to share a lane with a motorcycle.
- No Lane Splitting: Lane splitting (riding between lanes of slow or stopped traffic) and lane filtering are strictly illegal in North Dakota.
- Helmet Requirements: All riders and passengers under the age of 18 are required by law to wear a DOT-approved helmet.
- Passenger Rule: If the operator is under 18 and required to wear a helmet, their passenger must also wear one, regardless of the passenger's age.
This is a high-level overview of North Dakota’s motorcycle law. Additional requirements and details apply.
Staying Safe with Motorcycles
Protect yourself by following the ATGATT principle: All The Gear, All The Time.
- Wear Protective Gear: Use a DOT-compliant helmet, reflective clothing, and sturdy boots.
- Ride Sober: Alcohol and drugs are major factors in motorcycle fatalities. Never ride impaired.
- Be Visible: Position yourself where drivers can see you, use your headlamp, and signal early.
- Continuous Learning: Even experienced riders can benefit from a Rider Safety Course to sharpen their skills and hazard-avoidance techniques.
Drivers of passenger vehicles play a critical role in preventing motorcycle crashes:
- Look Twice: Always look twice for motorcycles, especially at intersections and when turning left.
- Check Blind Spots: Motorcycles are small and can easily be hidden in your vehicle's blind spots.
- Maintain Distance: Leave at least a four-second following distance behind motorcycles to allow for sudden maneuvers.
- Stay Focused: Distracted driving is a leading cause of multi-vehicle motorcycle crashes.
Contact us for more information on the North Dakota Motorcycle Safety, to find a rider safety course near you, or other resources.
External Resources: