Chattanooga is home to all kinds of outdoor sports lovers. Many of the best roads in Chattanooga for motorcycle riding are also used for long distance running, bicycle riding, among many other activities. This can bring many tourists and increase the amount of out of state motorcyclists in Chattanooga. However, it is important to know that as a motorcyclist, you will be sharing the road with all of these other people and should be on the lookout. It is also crucial to be aware of changing road conditions and traffic patterns. These can change without a moment’s notice in Chattanooga. Read on to learn more about safety tips for out of state motorcyclists in Chattanooga, as well as the ways a dedicated injury attorney could offer you their assistance today.
Out of state motorcyclists in Chattanooga should know that Tennessee law enforcement will strictly enforce the helmet law. Some states do not have helmet laws, but Tennessee does and they are strictly enforced. It is also important that an individual always carries a motorcycle licensing certification on them. Specifically with respect to road quality in Chattanooga, an out of state visitor should know that Tennessee does have some poorly maintained roads. A rider must be aware that the road conditions can change rapidly without notice. Taking these precautions can go a long way towards preventing an unintended accident.
Out of state motorcyclists in Chattanooga should know just how mountainous the terrain is inside and around Chattanooga. Many riders may be more familiar with flat terrain, but the mountainous roads here, while beautiful, can be dangerous. The road system here in Tennessee is built with pathways that are often winding and subject to hairpin switch backs that turn two lanes into a single lane without much notice. Planning on preparing their route and driving at a controlled speed and smart things to do while riding in Chattanooga.
Out of state motorcyclists in Chattanooga with passengers need to be aware that they will be held liable for injuries that their passenger sustained if they were even partially at fault in an accident. Motorcycle accidents aren’t always crystal clear as to what the party is accountable, there is often a combination of fault. A motorcycle driver must ensure that they have sufficient liability coverage that would cover their passenger in the event that this comparative fault is assigned to them.
An example of a law that protects out of state motorcyclists in Chattanooga is the driver compact that ensures that Tennessee law enforcement recognizes an individual’s out of state motorcycle license certification, and they do not need to take some separate test when coming to Tennessee. The laws governing motorists and traffic in the state of Tennessee apply equally to in-state as well as out of state motorcyclists. The Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment ensures that all motorists are treated fairly and equitably when traveling between states.
Often times, the laws of a driver’s home state will apply with respect to his or her own insurance coverage when it comes to personal injury protection coverage or uninsured motorist coverage following an accident in Tennessee. Other than insurance coverage, typically the laws of the local jurisdiction in which an individual has an accident will govern the situation. However, it is important to consult with an experienced injury attorney after an accident to understand the correct laws to apply to any given situation involving out of state motorcyclists in Chattanooga.