Who Is Required to Wear a Bicycle Helmet?

For those looking to cycle on public roads, it’s essential to be aware that multiple states across the United States mandate the use of helmets. The list of such states encompasses Massachusetts, Washington, New York, New York, and California. Familiarizing yourself with each state’s specific helmet laws is crucial in ensuring you’re fully prepared for your upcoming cycling journey.

California

Although a bicycle helmet may seem unnecessary, studies have shown that protecting your head and neck is essential. A helmet is not necessary to prevent serious injuries. Helmets also reduce the risk of fatalities.

California law allows you to ride a bicycle without a helmet, but it’s not recommended. Bicyclists could be subject to traffic citations and even civil liability.

Other things should be considered in bike safety, such as using bright clothing, stopping at stop signs, and using hand signals when turning. Nonetheless, the law is simple: anyone under 18 must wear a bicycle helmet.

This is not true in all states. Local laws can vary. Some states have no laws.

However, California has a youth helmet law requiring children under 18 to wear helmets. For those under 18, the fine is $25 for the first offense. The fine increases for each subsequent violation.

New York

Bicycling in New York City is a great and healthy way to travel. It is an economical alternative to driving and is also more environmentally friendly. There are many bike sharing programs. There are restrictions on how bicyclists may ride. Bicyclists must take care not to collide with pedestrians or motor vehicles.

Bicycle-related injuries and deaths have declined in the city. This could be due to increased helmet use. In 1989, New York State passed the first bicycle helmet law for passengers under five. As a result, the rate of bicycle-related fatalities fell by 60%.

All bicyclists younger than 14 years old must wear helmets. Helmets must be safety certified and securely fitted to the head. A safety certified child carrier must be used for children under four years old.

In addition to requiring the helmet, the state of New York also requires all bicyclists to wear a red or white headlight, a bell, and a horn. Bicyclists must obey traffic signals, use the right side and stay in the middle of the travel lane.

Washington

It’s no secret that wearing a bicycle helmet can help prevent head injuries. Studies have shown that helmets can decrease the risk of fatal brain injury by up to 40 percent. Wearing a helmet also can reduce the amount you’ll be held liable for in personal injury lawsuits.

Washington does not require cyclists to wear helmets. However, it is a good idea. Helmets can help protect your brain against various serious injuries, such as skull fractures or lacerations. If you’re involved in a crash, you should replace your helmet immediately.

Some cities, such as Seattle, have a law that requires all bicyclists to wear helmets. Other jurisdictions, like King County, have more specific ordinances.

Due to legal and medical concerns, Seattle’s helmet law was removed in February 2022. Though the law did not affect all of King County, it’s clear that it’s not being enforced in an equitable fashion.

Massachusetts

Bicycling is one of the most common forms of transportation. However, accidents do happen. These accidents can result in catastrophic personal injury, or even wrongful death. These are the reasons why laws and regulations regarding bicycles are so important.

Bicycle riders in Massachusetts are subject to the same rules as motor vehicle drivers. This means that cyclists must obey all traffic laws, including stop signs and red lights. Similarly, pedestrians have the same right of way as bike riders.

Bicyclists may not ride on express state highways, but they may use all public ways in the Commonwealth. This includes sidewalks that are not in business districts. Bicyclists can also use recreational bike paths, unless otherwise stated.

Drivers must give at least three feet space for cyclists to pass. They must not block the lane, or open a door in front of cyclists.

Cyclists don’t need to signal constantly, but they should be aware of other road users. They should be alert for sharp turns, bumps in the pavement, standing water, and low-hanging branches.