Motorcycle Helmet Laws in the US and the Consequences of Breaking Them

Helmet use is known to significantly reduce the severity of injuries motorcyclists may suffer in an accident. The United States has strict laws on helmet use, and failing to follow them can result in fines, penalty points, or suspended licenses.

Motorcycle accidents account for 15% of all fatalities. They can cause physical, emotional, and financial damage. It can also derail lives. So, wear a motorcycle helmet and save your life!

Motorcycle helmet laws

Most states in the US require motorcycle riders to wear helmets. There are exceptions to this, in that three states don’t have any laws on helmet usage. These states are Iowa, Illinois, and New Hampshire.

Motorcycle laws were first put in place around 1975. Since then, the laws have been amended, and each state has its own version. Generally, laws on helmet usage vary based on age and type of vehicle (engine size, etc.). Three states require mandatory helmet usage for all motorcycle riders: California, Oregon, and Georgia.

There are also guidelines on what kind of protection should be used. These may include goggles, glasses, or windshields, but most states only require helmets.

Individuals below a certain age are required to wear helmets across all states. The age limit can vary from 18 to 21 years. However, very small children are not exempt from the law or are outright prohibited from riding.

Riders with learner’s permits are also required to wear helmets until they earn their license.

Legal Consequences

The legal consequences of breaking these rules vary based on the state and the type of infraction.

Generally, motorcycle users are fined anywhere between $25 and $200. States with stricter helmet usage laws, like California or New York, typically have higher fines. 

Failing to wear a helmet may lead to demerit points. Raking up enough points can result in a license being suspended. At 6 points, drivers get letters of warning, and at 12 points, their license will be suspended.

Of course, drivers with suspended licenses will have a shot at having it reinstated, but only after a waiting period and undergoing the necessary evaluations.

Helmet usage also has an impact on motorcycle accidents. There are states that have laws on how much responsibility a person bears in an accident, like comparative negligence laws. This reduces the fault of the defendant if the victim was found to be negligent in any way, for example, not wearing a helmet.

There are also very clear regulations for helmet standards issued by the government. Helmet manufacturers are required to meet these standards, commonly referred to as DOT compliance.

Other costs of motorcycle accidents

Motorcycle accidents can result in deadly injuries like brain trauma or spinal cord injuries. These can lead to permanent disability, which can result in a person being unable to return to work. This can completely derail a person's life.

Motorcycle accidents also cause significant emotional damage that can sometimes be hard to overcome. Common mental health issues that arise from such accidents include PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Victims may not be able to ride again for a while or have issues in other areas of life as a result of an accident.

Financially, motorcycle accidents can cost anywhere between ten thousand and a million dollars in damages. Medical bills can easily skyrocket, not to mention the material cost of repairing the motorcycle or any other property that was damaged.

Conclusion

Helmets play an important role in reducing the overall impact of catastrophic accidents. So don’t ride without one!

The laws on helmet use vary from state to state. Knowing the law can help you stay safe and avoid heavy fines.

If you find yourself in an accident on your motorcycle, you should consider hiring a lawyer. They could help you understand your rights and defend them in court.