For the true motorcycle enthusiasts in Southern California, their passion does not stop simply at riding their motorcycles, but continues on into the realm of modification and maintenance of their bikes. One of the first modifications that people often make is the exchange of their stock exhaust for one that not only performs better, but also looks more appealing.
A new bill that was signed into law by Gov. Schwarzenegger on September 28th will have a far-reaching impact on the state of motorcycle modification in California. The law requires that all exhaust systems on motorcycles that are registered in California and manufactured after January 1, 2013, carry an EPA mark of approval. This mark of approval from the EPA will certify that the exhaust system meets appropriate federal noise limits.
The Cost of Violation
The violation will only be a secondary offense, which means that an officer would have to observe the motorcyclist violating another law before he or she could be pulled over and cited for an improper exhaust. Violators will be facing fines of up to $100 for a first offense and up to $250 for each offense thereafter. Judges, however, have the discretion to dismiss the fine for first-time offenders, if they are able to remedy their exhaust by replacing it with an EPA certified unit.
Difficulty of Enforcement
This law presents a policing issue, as it is difficult to assume that all officers will have the appropriate training required to be able to know where to find the EPA seal of approval. This may lead to many false tickets that not only add unnecessary burden to citizens, but also to the courts. For a motorcyclist to be able to prove to an officer that his or her exhaust is in fact legal, some disassembly of the exhaust system may be required.
If you live is California and are looking to purchase a motorcycle in the near future, it is in your best interest to familiarize yourself with this new law.
If you have been in a Southern California motorcycle accident, your probably have a lot of questions. Contact an experienced Riverside motorcycle accident attorney at our office at (800) 989-6385 for answers.
Be sure to order a FREE copy of our controversial book, 7 BIGGEST MISTAKES That Can Ruin Your California Injury Case.
