Motorcycle Safety

The diversity of Tennessee’s geography from the Smoky Mountains in the east to the Mississippi delta lands in the west encourages motorcyclists, and motorists alike, to travel our state. Along with these scenic opportunities, the cultural, historical, social, and entertainment opportunities in our state bring fun destinations to meet everybody’s taste. Tennessee is a place that everybody can enjoy.
 
May is nationally recognized as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. States and motorcycle organizations across the country conduct a variety of activities to promote the importance of motorist awareness and sharing the road with motorcyclists.
 
 
The Tennessee Highway Safety Office reminds all motorists to “look twice” and safely "share the road" to help keep motorcyclists safe. See below for information and resources related to motorcycle safety.

Tennessee Motorcycle Laws

  • A safety helmet is required to be worn by motorcyclists. [TCA 55-9-302]
  • Approved helmets include DOT (FMVSS 218 Certified), CSPM, SNELL, and SIRC.
  • The daytime use of headlight is required. [TCA 55-8-164(b)]
  • The motorcyclist must wear eye protection unless his/her motorcycle is equipped with a windshield. [TCA 55-9-304]
  • Lane splitting is not legal in Tennessee. [TCA 55-8-182 (b & c)]
  • All motorcycles and motor-driven cycles operated upon any highway or public road of this state shall be equipped with a rearview mirror and securely attached footrests for the operators and passengers on all motorcycles and motor-driven cycles. [TCA 55-9-305]
  • Mufflers are required on motorcycles. Cutouts are prohibited. [TCA 55-9-202]
  • If the motorcycle is transporting a passenger, then it must be equipped with passenger seating and passenger footrest. [TCA 55-9-305/TCA 55-8-164(a)]


Access a free online version of the Tennessee Code.

Tennessee Autocycle Laws

  • An autocycle is a three-wheeled motorcycle that is equipped with safety belts, steering wheel, and nonstraddle seating, and is manufactured to comply with federal safety requirements for motorcycles. [TCA 55-1-103 (a)]
  • The Class M Motorcycle Operator License is not required for the operation of an autocycle. [TCA 55-50-301(c)]
  • The driver and passenger of an autocycle must wear helmets UNLESS the autocycle is completely surrounded. [TCA 55-9-302 (b)(2)]

Access a free online version of the Tennessee Code.

Helpful Tips for Motorists

  • Check your mirrors and blind spots before switching lanes. Motorcycles are smaller than most vehicles, they can be difficult to see.
  • The size of a motorcycle can cause other drivers to misjudge the speed and distance away of a motorcycle.
  • Always signal your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffic. This allows motorcyclists to anticipate your movement and find a safe lane position.
  • Allow a motorcyclist a full lane width. Share the road, but not the lane. A motorcyclist needs room to maneuver safely.
  • Allow ample follow distance - three or four seconds - when following a motorcycle. This provides the motorcycle rider more time to maneuver or stop in an emergency.

Helpful Tips for Riders

  • Wear a DOT-compliant helmet and use reflective tape and gear to be more visible.
  • Never ride while impaired or distracted. NHTSA-funded research has shown that motorists are distracted more than 50 percent of the time.
  • Always ride with a current motorcycle license.

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Contact: Shandi Smith