Getting out on a motorcycle is an exhilarating activity enjoyed by many. However, before you start riding, it is important to understand the requirements for motorcyclists in Mankato.
Even skilled riders who follow all the rules sometimes get injured in motorcycle crashes. Maschka Personal Injury has been helping injured people in the out-state area for decades. If you were hurt in an accident, our motorcycle wreck attorneys can support you through your recovery and guide you through the legal claims process.
Requirements for legally operating a motorcycle in Mankato include a valid driver’s license and a motorcycle endorsement. If you are over 18, you must pass the written and skills tests to get your motorcycle endorsement, but the skills test will be waived if you complete the Minnesota Motorcycle Safety Center’s Basic Rider Course. Applicants under 18 must take the course.
Motorcycles must be registered, and you must show proof of insurance. Minimum liability insurance coverage is $30,000 for bodily injury, $60,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $10,000 for property damage per accident. Personal injury protection purchased to cover injuries in car accidents is not required for motorcycle insurance, and if you do not elect to purchase the coverage for your motorcycle, you will not have personal injury protection if you get hurt in an accident.
Motorcycles are not considered motor vehicles under the state’s no-fault laws. If you are injured in a motorcycle accident, contact our attorneys to determine whether you can pursue a legal claim against the at-fault driver.
Motorcycle riders under 18 and adults with a motorcycle learner’s permit must wear an approved helmet. Protective helmets are optional for fully licensed adult motorcycle riders. All Mankato riders are required to wear eye protection even if the motorcycle is equipped with a windscreen.
Minnesota Statutes § 169.974 requires motorcycles to have at least one brake that can be either hand or foot-operated. All motorcycles must have a headlight that is on whenever the bike is moving. A motorcycle with a passenger seat must be equipped with a footrest for the passenger. All motorcycles must have a horn and a rearview mirror.
Ensuring that you have all the required safety equipment and keeping it in good condition is essential. If you get into an accident and your motorcycle is not properly equipped, a responsible party could claim you were negligent, reducing your damages. Although an attorney could argue that the failure was not a factor in causing the motorcycle crash, obeying the law always puts you in the strongest position.
If you operate a motorcycle in Mankato, you are required to obey the same rules as drivers of other vehicles. Additionally, you should be aware of certain laws that apply only to motorcyclists.
Motorcycles are entitled to occupy an entire lane, but as of July 1, 2025, lane splitting is legal in Minnesota. Motorcyclists can ride beside a vehicle traveling in the same direction. Two motorcycles are also permitted to share a lane.
Sometimes, traffic signals do not detect motorcycles. If a light seems broken or stays red for an unreasonably long time, you may proceed against the red if there are no other vehicles or pedestrians nearby.
You are vulnerable when riding a motorcycle. The laws regulating motorcycle equipment and operations are meant to add a degree of safety to a dangerous activity.
Understanding and adhering to the requirements for motorcyclists in Mankato is a prudent practice, but it does not guarantee you will avoid accidents. If you are seriously hurt in a motorcycle crash, you should contact Maschka Personal Injury. Based in Mankato but serving the surrounding areas, our attorneys are prepared to work diligently to protect your rights and secure fair compensation from the responsible parties. Reach out today to discuss your options.
