What Age Can a Child Ride On the Back of a Motorcycle?
February 11, 2025 | Motorcycle Accidents
Like most other states in the U.S., Arizona does not impose an age restriction on the age of passengers for motorcycle riders. However, when it comes to how young a child can be when accompanying a rider, the biggest concern for most parents and guardians is safety. On that note, below is everything you need to do to ensure your child’s safety in the event they join you for a ride.
Understand The Law On Motorcycle Passengers In Arizona
Though the state doesn’t mandate a specific minimum age, the Arizona Motorcycle Operator Manual still outlines the following guidelines for passengers:
- Passengers must be able to reach the footpegs
- Children under 18 must wear a DOT-approved helmet
These guidelines suggest certain physical and developmental benchmarks a child should meet before they can ride on the back of a motorcycle.
Focus On the Child’s Physical Requirements
The consequences of a motorcycle accident can be severe, especially for a child passenger. Therefore, instead of focusing specifically on age, parents should consider their child’s individual capabilities, such as whether they have the following:
- Sufficient strength to grip the motorcycle or rider securely
- The ability to stay alert and follow safety instructions
- Physical development adequate to support the weight of a helmet
- Enough height to comfortably reach and use the foot pegs
- Mental maturity to adhere to safety protocols
Usually, it is recommended to wait until a child is at least five to seven years old to let them ride with you. However, that is a general guideline, as some eight-year-olds may not be ready, while some six-year-olds could potentially meet the physical and mental requirements.
Have the Right Safety Equipment
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation emphasizes the need to follow all state laws and equipment requirements, which include the following:
- A properly fitted, DOT-approved safety helmet
- Motorcycle-specific protective gear (jackets, pants, gloves)
- Secure, ankle-covering footwear
The wrong equipment can give a false sense of security and might actually increase the risk of catastrophic injury.
Preparing Your Child To Ride On The Back Of A Motorcycle
Introducing a child to riding on a motorcycle requires careful consideration and preparation. Here are some important steps for parents to follow:
- Begin with short rides: Start with brief outings in safe, open spaces to help your child get accustomed to the motorcycle.
- Practice safety procedures: Take the time to practice emergency procedures when you’re stationary so that both you and your child know what to do in unexpected situations, especially around cars and trucks.
- Establish communication: Setting up clear signals for communication during the ride ensures that both of you can share important information easily.
- Focus on comfort levels: Never push your child beyond their limits, and be ready to stop if they express any fear or unease.
- Get the ideal positioning: Ensure your child is correctly seated with their feet placed firmly on the pegs. Teach them how to hold onto you or their designated handholds, and emphasize the importance of maintaining a secure grip.
- Encourage steady movements: Advise your child against making any sudden movements while the motorcycle is in motion to maintain stability.
- Set guidelines on disembarking: Make it clear that your child should never attempt to get off the motorcycle until you give them specific instructions to do so.
- Warn against contact with moving parts: Remind your child not to touch any moving components while riding, as doing so can lead to serious injury.
- Maintain safe riding practices: Always perform a safety check and avoid high speeds and sharp turns, especially when riding with a child, to ensure a smooth and safe experience.
Preparing your child for motorcycle rides involves ensuring their safety and comfort while teaching them important skills for a secure and enjoyable experience.
Ensure Your Child Is Ready Before Riding With You
There’s no clear starting point for when you can put your child on the back of a motorcycle — the right age depends on the kid. As a parent or guardian, you have to be patient, careful, and willing to wait until they are clearly ready to safely ride with you.
Contact the Arizona Motorcycle Accident Lawyers at Runion Personal Injury Lawyers Today
If you were injured in an accident in Phoenix, AZ, and need legal help, contact our Phoenix motorcycle accident attorneys at Runion Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free case review today.
Runion Personal Injury Lawyers
3200 N Central Ave Suite 1100, Phoenix, AZ 85012
(602) 600-9000
