Have you ever wondered whether your child should ride on the back of a motorcycle? The first thing to consider is the law in your state. Often there is a height requirement but not an age requirement. For example, in California the child must be at least 4 feet 9 inches tall to lawfully ride on the back of a motorcycle. At this height, a child can reach motorcycle passenger footrests. Also, the child must be wearing a helmet in California. Surprisingly, only 17 states and the District of Columbia require a helmet. It is also prudent for the child to wear boots, gloves, a riding jacket and riding pants. However, no state requires special motorcycle clothing.
The things that you should consider as a parent are whether the driver is responsible. The most common age for motorcycle accidents is between 25 – 29. Most motorcycle riders are men. But even if you feel that the driver is responsible, there are factors on the road that one can’t control. Other drivers can make mistakes on the road no matter how careful you are as a motorcyclist. In fact, most motorcycle crashes are caused by other drivers.
If you are following the law in your state, then it is up to your own judgement as a parent. Helmets do not always protect riders, especially children in fatalities. An adult has the mental capacity to decide whether to ride on a motorcycle but a child does not. Parents put their children at risk by making the decision for them. So you have to decide how you’ll feel if your child is injured. If your child is not old enough (or tall enough) to ride as a passenger in your state, you can be held legally responsible.