Know Before You Ride – Crucial Motorcycle Helmet Laws
Since 1967, laws regarding helmets in the United States have been quite dynamic. This is because, in 1967, the federal government began requiring states to enact helmet laws to increase their use in different states.
The only way that states could receive highway construction funds or federal safety programs was if they enacted these laws. By the early 1970s, almost every state had universal motorcycle helmet laws that riders had to abide by, making it clear that the incentives put in place worked.
However, around the same time, in 1968, some states began repealing and amending motorcycle helmet laws. In 1976, several states lobbied together to get Congress to block the Department of Transportation from penalizing states that did not enact motorcycle helmet laws.
Current Motorcycle Laws In The United States
Almost every state has some kind of law in place regarding the use of motorcycle helmets laws. As of now, 19 states, as well as the District of Columbia, have motorcycle helmet laws in place. However, there are only 28 states that only require some motorcyclists to wear helmets.
As of today, there are only three states that do not have any restrictions governing the use of helmets, including New Hampshire, Iowa, and Illinois.
Some states that have universal helmet laws also have more inexpensive medical-related claim costs. These can lessen insurance costs without having tons of impact on motorcyclists.
What to Consider When Purchasing a Motorcycle Helmet
When riding in a state where helmets are legally required, the helmets often have to be DOT-approved. This means that the helmets are in compliance with the Department of Transportation. Riders often have the ability to choose between full-face and half-face motorcycle helmets.
Of course, full-face helmets offer much higher protection when it comes to serious accidents.
While non-DOT-approved motorcycle helmets will still offer some protection, it’s important that you check the rules and regulations of your state to determine whether or not driving with one would be legal.
There are also states that require the use of eye protection when on the road.
If you’re very serious about finding a helmet that can offer you the most protection, your best bet is to look for a Snell-approved helmet. These helmets are DOT-approved and go by much more rigorous standards than DOT-approved helmets.
It’s also a good idea to refrain from buying used helmets, as it can be difficult to know how much wear and tear a helmet has gone through when you buy one.
Final Thoughts – Understanding Important Helmet Laws
Knowing important helmet laws is crucial for keeping yourself safe in the case of bad accidents, and keeping you safe from legal pushback in an accident related to helmets. If you get in an accident here in California, make sure to give us a call!
We will help you gather all of the essentials, such as medical records and case evidence, so you don’t have to, all while assessing the evidence to determine the types of damages you could be awarded.
on’t suffer at the fault of someone else’s negligence without getting the compensation you deserve. Get in touch with us here at Motorcycle Advocates today!
