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Highlands Today

New Motorcycle Law Makes Sense

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Highlands Today staff

Published: July 6, 2008

The Florida Legislature enacts many laws while in session each year. One wonders how some — the gun law allowing employees licensed to carry concealed weapons to keep firearms in their locked vehicles at work — make it through, while there are others that hit the mark.

The law that went into effect Tuesday dealing with motorcycle safety is a good one. It could be argued that it should have done long before now.

Those who don't already have a motorcycle endorsement now have to successfully complete a Basic Rider Course before being allowed to ride on public roads. Before July 1, anyone over the age of 21 could take and pass the knowledge test and skills test and get a motorcycle endorsement. Everyone will have to take the class and pass the test — no matter their age.

Motorcycle accidents have been prevalent in Highlands County this year. Unfortunately several have resulted in fatalities.

We don't know if the fatalities could have been prevented as a result of a class, but they might have.

With seemingly more motorcycles on the road being used for work as well as pleasure it is important that new riders be as knowledgeable as possible.
It wouldn't hurt for veteran riders to take a refresher course.

Bill Monts-De-Oca, who owns two Harley-Davidson motorcycle dealerships in Polk County, told this newspaper that he believes it is a good idea for everyone to take a class. He has been riding for more than 40 years and does it.
The new law includes motor-scooters 50 cubic centimeters and up.

The course is being offered locally at Sebring High School through Motorcycle Rider Instruction Inc., a Miami-based company.
Riders need to be reminded that operating a motorcycle in Florida without an endorsement may result in arrest and impoundment of the motorcycle.

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