Understanding Helmet Laws
Motorcycle helmet laws vary significantly across the United States. Understanding your state's requirements is important not just for compliance, but because helmet use can affect your personal injury claim.
Universal Helmet Law States (19 states + DC)
These states require ALL motorcycle riders and passengers to wear helmets:
- Alabama, California, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland
- Massachusetts, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada
- New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Tennessee
- Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia
- District of Columbia
Partial Helmet Law States (28 states)
These states require helmets for certain riders (usually under 18 or 21):
Under 18:
- Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho
- Indiana, Kansas, Maine, Minnesota, Montana
- New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota
- Utah, Wisconsin, Wyoming
Under 21:
- Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Kentucky, Michigan
- Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas
No Helmet Law States (3 states)
- Illinois
- Iowa
- New Hampshire
How Helmet Use Affects Your Case
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Contributory Negligence
In some states, not wearing a helmet can reduce your compensation if you suffered head injuries. The defense may argue you contributed to your own injuries.
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Comparative Fault
Many states use comparative negligence, where your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. Not wearing a helmet could be considered partial fault for head injuries.
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