Utah lawmakers advance bill to suspend motorcycle privileges for reckless driving

In a recent session of the Utah State Senate, lawmakers gathered to address a pressing issue: motorcycle safety. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the chamber, discussions turned serious as statistics revealed a troubling trend—motorcycle fatalities have reached a 15-year high, primarily due to reckless driving behaviors among motorcyclists.

The proposed legislation aims to tackle these dangerous practices, which include lane splitting and performing wheelies. The Utah Highway Patrol has voiced strong support for the bill, emphasizing the need for effective measures to curb these reckless actions. The bill does not introduce new offenses but seeks to enforce existing laws more stringently. Specifically, it proposes a 90-day suspension of motorcycle privileges for riders caught engaging in these unsafe behaviors.

Senator Ibsen, a proponent of the bill, highlighted the importance of providing law enforcement with the tools necessary to manage bad behavior on the roads. He noted that while the bill originally included a requirement for horizontally mounted license plates, this provision was removed to accommodate various motorcycle designs.

However, not all senators were in agreement. Senator Fillmore raised concerns about the penalties associated with improperly displayed license plates, suggesting that the consequences could be overly harsh for minor infractions. He expressed worry that a simple mechanical failure could lead to severe penalties, including license suspension and potential impoundment of the motorcycle.

In response, Senator Ibsen reassured his colleagues that the intent of the legislation is to target deliberate attempts to hide license plates, not to punish riders for accidental issues. The discussion underscored the delicate balance lawmakers must strike between ensuring public safety and avoiding excessive penalties for minor infractions.

As the session progressed, Senator Wilson acknowledged the importance of addressing these concerns and expressed a willingness to work with the House sponsor to refine the bill before its final vote. With warmer months approaching, the urgency to enhance motorcycle safety remains a priority for Utah lawmakers, as they seek to protect both riders and the broader community from the dangers of reckless driving.