As a motorcycle rider, it is only natural to want to share your passion for riding with your children. A common question asked by parents who ride is, “Can a child ride on a motorcycle?” In Ohio, the answer depends more on the child’s size than their age, and the state imposes specific restrictions for riders under age 18.

Can A Child Ride on a Motorcycle in Ohio?

The short answer is yes, a child can be a motorcycle passenger in Ohio. However, Ohio has strict laws about child safety while riding. Knowing the motorcycle laws in Ohio can help protect your young passenger and ensure you do not find yourself in legal trouble.

According to R.C. §4511.53, motorcycle operators and passengers must ride only on a seat or saddle that is firmly attached. They must straddle the seat, facing forward with one leg on each side of the motorcycle. Children are no exception to this rule. In addition, riders and passengers under age 18 must wear a helmet that meets federal safety standards.

What Is the Minimum Age to Be a Passenger on a Motorcycle?

The only states that currently have age limit restrictions on riding a motorcycle are Washington, Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Hawaii.

Ohio does not have a minimum age to be a passenger on a motorcycle. However, it is illegal to carry a passenger who cannot reach the footrests. Therefore, determining whether a child can ride as a passenger on a motorcycle is more a question of physical size than age.

To be safe, the child must be large enough to sit comfortably in the seat, reach the footrests, and be able to hold the motorcycle’s handholds. Parents of young riders should ensure children understand motorcycle safety protocols and can follow instructions while riding.

Safety Tips for Riding with Children

Children riding on a motorcycle should wear appropriate protective gear, including a helmet, protective clothing, gloves, and boots.

Parents should teach children how to safely and properly mount and dismount the motorcycle, and when it is appropriate to do so.

Motorcycle operators should adjust their riding style to avoid sudden stops or sharp turns and maintain a smooth, steady pace when riding with kids.

Understanding Motorcycle Helmet Laws in Ohio

In Ohio, motorcycle operators and passengers are required to wear eye protection, such as eyeglasses, goggles, or a face shield attached to their helmet. Motorcycle operators are required to wear a helmet during their first year of endorsement.

Children under 18 are required to wear a motorcycle helmet while riding.

What Should You Do If You Are in an Accident While Riding with a Child?

Despite taking appropriate precautions, motorcycle accidents can and do happen. If you and your child were involved in a motorcycle accident, you should seek medical attention as quickly as possible, even if the injuries appear to be minor. Some injuries may not be immediately noticeable and may not be diagnosed without intervention by a medical professional.

Call the police to report the motorcycle accident and create an official record of what happened. The police report could be important in an insurance claim and any legal proceedings.

Take pictures of the accident scene and document the road conditions, the vehicles involved, and injuries sustained.

Contact an experienced motorcycle accident injury attorney at Robenalt Law. Our experienced personal injury attorneys can evaluate the circumstances of the crash and help you and your family recover the financial compensation you deserve.

Contact Robenalt Law Today

Robenalt Law has offices in Cleveland and Columbus, and handles claims for motorcycle accident injuries throughout Ohio and nationwide.

Call our Cleveland office at (216) 223-7535 or our Columbus office at (614) 695-3800 or contact us online to schedule a free, confidential, no-obligation appointment to discuss your situation and how we can help.