Why Loud Motorcycles Aren’t Getting Cited: Safety, Perception, and Legal Challenges
The question why 'motorcycles with very loud exhausts don't get cited' is based on a false premise that such citations are rare. In reality, motorcyclists are frequently issued tickets for loud exhausts and other equipment violations. This article delves into the reasons behind the perceived lack of citations, the role of equipment safety, and the legal hurdles involved.
The Role of Loud Pipes
Contrary to popular belief, loud pipes actually play a crucial role in motorcycle safety. Many drivers report that they would have been able to notice motorcycles earlier if they were alerted by their sound. Indeed, the sound of a motorcycle serves as an auditory cue for drivers, reducing the risk of accidents caused by inattention. For instance, the author lost several friends in accidents due to distracted driving – an issue for which loud motorcycles can act as a preventive measure. Unfortunately, the increasing volume of traffic has desensitized some drivers, making them less attentive to the sounds around them.
The Perspective of Law Enforcement
Officers often cite motorcyclists for loud exhausts not as a safety measure but rather as a "fix it" ticket that addresses a nuisance rather than a real threat to public safety. Some law enforcement officials find it challenging to enforce sound laws due to the necessary equipment and procedures required. For example, sound level meters must be calibrated daily to ensure accurate readings, and such devices are expensive. This makes it difficult for cities and police departments with limited budgets to enforce exhaust laws strictly.
A local police officer, who is also a friend, mentioned that the citation process is hampered by the need for a properly calibrated sound meter, which is cost-prohibitive for his city. As a result, those who ride loud motorcycles continue to do so, creating a sense of irritation among the public. The author sarcastically notes that the noise is often so intense that it disrupts the quiet of the neighborhood, proving that the issue is not just a safety concern but also a nuisance.
Tailored Solutions and Local Variations
The enforcement of sound laws varies significantly across different regions. Some states have simplified but somewhat arbitrary methods for determining whether an exhaust is too loud, while others have more specific procedures. For instance, some states ban aftermarket mufflers that do not bear an "for highway use" stamp, making it easy for these devices to be regulated. In rural areas, open pipes on a cruiser might not attract much attention, but in urban areas, such as exclusive neighborhoods in Southern California, the sound is far more likely to draw the attention of law enforcement.
In the author's opinion, many officers prioritize safety issues over equipment violations, considering defective equipment tickets to be low priority. This reduces the financial gains from these citations, as they do not generate significant revenue for the department.
The Contradiction in Cruiser Riders’ Claims
Many cruiser riders claim that loud exhausts improve safety because car drivers can hear them earlier. However, the author points out a contradiction in this logic: these riders often neglect their own safety. Most cruiser riders he has seen do not wear helmets, or if they do, they wear minimal helmets. This inconsistency in safety practices undermines the argument that louder motorcycles are safer.
Conclusion
While loud motorcycles can be dangerous as a nuisance, their proponents claim they improve safety by alerting drivers to the presence of motorcycles. However, the lack of consistent and enforceable noise regulations means that these claims often go untested. The author, residing near a police station, knows from personal experience that even police officers ride loud motorcycles, further challenging the notion that law enforcement consistently enforces noise laws.
In summary, the issue of loud motorcycles and their enforcement is complex, involving perceptions of nuisance, safety concerns, and the practical challenges of law enforcement. As long as the necessary equipment remains prohibitively expensive and the priority of law enforcement is on more pressing safety issues, loud motorcycles will continue to be heard.