Do Cars And Bikes Have To Follow The Same Traffic Laws?

Whether you are a bike owner or a car owner, understanding traffic rules and their application is essential for everyone. One common confusion about traffic rules that might have popped into your mind would be – are traffic rules the same for cars and bikes? You might also wonder if bike owners are exempt from some rules levied on four-wheelers. We've covered anything and everything that will answer your doubt and more in this article. So without further delay, let's jump straight to the topic!

Bikes Receive Equal Road Treatment

Around the world, motorcycles and cars receive equal treatment regarding road laws and regulations. One thing to keep in mind is that motorcycles are considered motor vehicles. Since they are motor vehicles, they get placed into the same category as cars.

As a result, motorcycles have to abide by the same traffic rules as any other motorized vehicle. Motorcycle drivers also need to adhere to speed limits and obey traffic signals like car owners. Additionally, the road signboards apply to motorcycles. Finally, the legal limit for blood alcohol concentration is also relevant to motorcyclists.

In most countries, bikers also need to have vehicle insurance like cars. These insurance requirements generally mirror those for four-wheeler insurance. If you are a motorcycle driver, it is safer to assume that most traffic rules for cars apply to you.

Some Specific Laws for Bikes

There are some unique requirements that motorcycle owners need to comply with. There are several other safety risks, and the bike typically has a speedy nature. These are some motorcycle rules that might be unique to two-wheelers:

• Lane Splitting:
  While stuck in traffic, you might have seen many motorcycles zipping by your side. They typically drive in between the cars in lanes. Though not in Indian states, countries that follow a lane-system driving consider this illegal.
• Headlights:
  As with every vehicle, motorcyclists also need to use the headlights while driving at night-time. However, there is a law in many places around the world that insists on bikers using headlights during the day.
• Helmets:
  You don't see car owners wearing helmets. Do you? However, motorcycle riders would expose themselves to challenges and fines if they are caught riding without a helmet. That's not it; the pillion rider also needs to wear a safety helmet. Under the law, you cannot refuel at petrol bunks if not wearing a helmet.

Now that you know that road laws and regulations are nearly the same for bikes and cars, make sure to clear this doubt the next time you hear people debating it.