Questioni have a baja dune buggy with 150cc motor on it it has working front headlights my ? is how do i make or can i make it street legal? i live in racine wi
AnswerHi Erik and thanks for visiting AllExperts!
There are many laws that apply to vehicles that can use the roadway, those registered and those that are not. As an example, in most areas in California, a GoPed which has no lights, horn or safety devices which is unregistered, can use the roadway under certain conditions in the daytime.
Every state has basic laws regarding those vehicles known as 'Street Legal', which is described as a registered motor vehicle. They vary depending on if they are allowed to use the freeway, operate at night, carry passengers, etc.
Usually, the following rules exist:
1) Operational headlights that meet NHTSA requirements.
2) Operational horn that meets NHTSA requirements.
3) Operational tail lights that meets NHTSA requirements.
4) Operational brake lights that meets NHTSA requirements.
5) Vehicle meets basic safety requirements for brakes & control.
7) The vehicle can pass the local DMV inspection.
8) If the vehicle is not classified as a motorcycle or motor scooter,
then operation seat belts that meets NHTSA requirements would be
needed.
If the vehicle is to be used during hours of darkness, operational turn signals that meet NHTSA would be required.
If the vehicle is to used on freeways, usually a rating of 15 or more horse power is required.
Each state is allowed to add greater requirements to their code. Many counties and cities may also add ordinances which can add to the requirements.
For the purposes of this blurb, NHTSA stands for the National Highway Transport Safety Administration. One of their tasks is the testing of all safety equipment on vehicles and recommendations to the state on what should be allowed and disallowed.
I hope this has answered your question Erik. If not, please write back. Have a great day!
Terry.
