Current with changes from the 2024 Legislative Session
Section 21-1302 - Riding on motorcycles(a) The operator of a motorcycle may ride the motorcycle only on the permanent and regular seat attached to it.(b) The operator of a motorcycle may not carry any other person unless the motorcycle is designed to carry more than one person, in which event a passenger may ride on the permanent and regular seat, if designed for two persons, or on another seat firmly attached to the motorcycle at the rear or side of the operator.(c)(1) A person other than the operator of a motorcycle may not ride on a motorcycle unless the motorcycle is designed to carry more than one person, in which event a passenger may ride on the permanent and regular seat, if designed for two persons, or on another seat firmly attached to the motorcycle at the rear or side of the operator.(2)(i) Except as provided in subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, a passenger may not ride on a motorcycle on a seat at the rear of the operator unless the passenger is able to position the passenger's feet firmly on the footrests while seated.(ii) Subparagraph (i) of this paragraph does not apply to a passenger on a motorcycle who is unable to position the passenger's feet firmly on the footrests due to a permanent physical disability.(d) A person may ride on a motorcycle operated under a Class M driver's license only while sitting astride the seat, facing forward, with one leg on each side of the motorcycle.(e) A person may not operate a motorcycle while carrying any package, bundle, or other article that prevents the person from keeping both hands on the steering mechanism.(f) The operator of a motorcycle may not carry any person in a position that interferes with the operation or control of the motorcycle or the view of the operator.(g) A person other than the operator of a motorcycle may not ride in a position that interferes with the operation or control of the motorcycle or the view of the operator.Amended by 2024 Md. Laws, Ch. 637,Sec. 1, eff. 10/1/2024.Amended by 2024 Md. Laws, Ch. 636,Sec. 1, eff. 10/1/2024.Amended by 2016 Md. Laws, Ch. 231, Sec. 1, eff. 7/1/2016.