There’s something incredibly freeing about feeling the wind in your face. Riding a motorcycle is exhilarating but there are some laws to follow if you’re in the Sooner State.
While there aren’t a ton of statutes, navigating Oklahoma motorcycle laws can be a little confusing. You may even have a few questions about the various laws. To help you stay safe and legal on your motorcycle, we’re answering some of your commonly asked questions.
Does Oklahoma Have Motorcycle Laws?
Oklahoma has a pretty expansive statute covering requirements for both motorcycle operators and their passengers. This law doesn’t stop at motorcycles, it also covers motorized and motor-driven bicycles.
The law requires everyone under 18 operating or riding on a motorcycle or any type of motorized bicycle to always wear an approved safety helmet. How do you know if your helmet meets state guidelines? As long as your helmet meets U.S. DOT Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, you should be following state law. Since most helmets marketed for motorcycles meet these safety guidelines, finding one shouldn’t be a problem.
The Sooner State also requires all riders under the age of 18 to complete a certified Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) training course. If you’re over 18, you can ditch the motorcycle helmet as long as you’re wearing approved safety glasses.
Do I Need to Wear Protective Clothing to Ride My Motorcycle?
The Sooner State does make motorcycle riders wear approved safety glasses but the law stops at your clothing. No, this doesn’t mean you can hop on your bike wearing your underwear and a helmet.
Oklahoma can have a relaxed dress code in some situations, but not when you’re riding or operating a motorcycle. You’re strongly encouraged to always wear the following any time you jump on a motorcycle:
A long sleeve jacket, preferably made from a durable material like leather, with reflective material for increased visibility
Long durable pants
Over-the-ankle closed-toe riding boots
Full-fingered motorcycle gloves
Yep, this is a ton of gear and it’s not always comfortable to wear. Even Oklahoma can get pretty warm in the summer. Sweating underneath a layer of protective clothing isn’t anyone’s idea of fun. However, it can help you avoid serious injuries if an accident occurs. So, even though state law only addresses motorcycle helmets, it’s still a good idea to wear protective clothing.
What Types of Motorcycle Helmets Should I Wear?
Even though state law doesn’t require motorcycle riders over 18 to strap on a helmet, it’s still a good idea to do so.
You’re also not limited to one specific type of motorcycle helmet. You have a few options. This way, you have an easier time finding a helmet that meets safety guidelines and suits your personality. You can pick and choose from three types of helmets, full-face, modular, and open-face:
Full-Face Helmets: Offer the best coverage by covering the head and chin. They often include a lock-in visor that provides additional eye protection.
Modular Helmets: Feature a movable chin guard and a visor to provide a combination of full-face and open-face styles for versatility and comfort.
Open-Face Helmets: Cover the top and sides of the head but lack a chin strap and visor which increases the risk of facial injuries from debris and weather.
Before you settle on a specific type of motorcycle helmet, think about where you’re riding. For example, if loose gravel and other road debris are a problem, you probably don’t want to go with an open-face helmet. You want the eye protection you get from a full-face helmet. If the terrain frequently switches up, a modular helmet may be your best option.
Why Does Oklahoma Enforce Motorcycle Safety Eyeglass Laws?
Oklahoma’s motorcycle laws hit the books in the 1990s and haven’t really changed since. Unlike some other states requiring all riders to wear motorcycle helmets, Oklahoma focuses more on eye and face safety.
Don’t forget, if your bike doesn’t have a windshield, safety goggles and a lower face covering are a must. If you want to stay a little safer and possibly avoid a traumatic brain injury, strap on a motorcycle helmet.
Even though not all motorcycle operators are thrilled to wear a helmet, statistics are showing a decrease in fatalities and traumatic head injuries. The CDC indicates motorcycle helmets can prevent anywhere from 37% to 41% of motorcycle crash fatalities. Even the healthcare system is seeing the benefits of motorcycle helmets.
If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident, don’t go through the process alone. Contact an experienced Oklahoma motorcycle injury attorney.
