Helmet Laws in California for Bicycles and Motorcycle Riders

What You Need to Know Before You Ride

If you plan to ride your bike or motorcycle in California, you need to know the legal requirements before you hit the road. The Golden State does mandate that you wear helmets under certain circumstances. Failing to wear a helmet when it is required can result in a fine. It may also directly impact your compensation if you are injured in an accident.

At LNN, we represent individuals who have been seriously injured in bicycle and motorcycle accidents throughout Los Angeles. We will help fight to ensure that you receive the recovery you deserve. If you were injured in an accident, contact our office at (213) 232-4848 to schedule a free consultation. 

What Are the Helmet Laws for Bicyclists in California?

In California, you are required to wear a helmet if you are under the age of 18. While adults are not required by state law to wear a helmet, it is strongly recommended and may be required by local ordinances. It is important to note that helmets are required for minors regardless of whether they are traveling on a street, bikeway, or bike path. Failure to wear a helmet when required can result in a $25 fine. 

What Are the Helmet Laws for Motorcyclists in California?

According to California Vehicle Code §27803, all motorcycle operators and passengers are required to wear a U.S. DOT-compliant motorcycle safety helmet. It is also recommended that you wear protective eye gear and clothing. 

Why Helmets Are Important

Studies show that wearing a helmet can significantly reduce your risk of death or serious injury when riding a bicycle or motorcycle. As reported by the National Safety Council, helmets are 37% effective in preventing fatal injuries. 

How to Ensure Your Helmet is Compliant

The purpose of the federal bicycle and motorcycle helmet safety standards is to ensure that manufacturers use the most effective design to protect the head. Federal agencies engineer helmets to absorb impact energy while mitigating impact forces to reduce the risk of head injuries during crashes. 

Taking the time to understand and ensure compliance is crucial for adequate protection and lowering the risk of severe head, skull, or traumatic brain injuries. They make verification simple by placing stickers on the inside with certification symbols. 

Fit, Positioning, and Maintenance 

Proper helmet fit and positioning are also vital. Ensure it sits level and correctly aligned on your head. That is important for bicycle and motorcycle helmets, as it maximizes the headgear’s ability to protect vulnerable areas, including the forehead and temples, where forceful impacts can be most dangerous. 

When they fit correctly, they cover your forehead, sit about one inch above the eyebrows, sit level, and remain secure with the strap. Make sure there is no wobbling or gaps. Regular maintenance is also essential, such as inspecting for cracks, dents, and worn or degraded straps. Industry experts suggest replacing them every 5 years, starting from the manufacturing date, and after any accidents. 

DOT Requirements

The federal safety standard requires that motorcycle helmets meet the minimum acceptable performance criteria to minimize the potential for severe and life-altering or fatal head injuries. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a division of the United States Department of Transportation (DOT), requires that all safety headgear comply with each testing principle of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard. 

The benchmark substantiates that the producer tested and ensured it meets the minimum performance criteria necessary to provide the most potential protection to the head during impacts. The testing required by the agencies overseeing the industry involves physical checks of the weight inner liner, chin strap, and outer shell. The categories of performance guidelines that the helmets must meet include the following: 

• Impact attenuation limits head acceleration during accidents, reducing the risk of brain injury
• Peak acceleration absorbs and distributes impact energy
• Penetration resistance prevents objects from piercing the shell 
• The retention system is the adjustable strap that ensures it stays securely on your head during impact 
• Configuration establishes unobstructed vision and complete coverage by ensuring the protective surface covers all points 
• Projection minimizes snag hazards by reducing or eliminating exterior bulky accessories, such as bims and visors

Verifying your helmet meets the requirements is also essential.  

Verify Certification Symbols

To verify that your bicycle or motorcycle helmet meets the minimum safety standards and offers the maximum protection, locate the stickers and check for official marks. A DOT sticker on the back indicates that it meets the U.S. federal standards for FMVSS 218. Also, look for additional nonprofit certifications, such as Snell, for enhanced safety. Similarly, bicycle headgear safety standards ensure it protects your head by testing for positional stability, impact absorption, and the strength of the straps, which make up the retention system. 

Before purchasing a helmet in the U.S., you can ensure it meets the minimum safety standards set nationwide by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission by looking for a sticker with the CPSC logo on the inside of the helmet. Please make sure to purchase helmets and all safety gear from a trusted retailer, and avoid buying used products.

What If I Am Injured While Not Wearing a Helmet?

If you are injured while not wearing a helmet, your compensation could be reduced. However,  you will not be completely barred from recovery if another person was at least partially to blame for your injuries. 

In California, injured parties can still obtain compensation from a party that was responsible for their damages. If they are found to have contributed to their own injuries, their recovery may be reduced in proportion to their percentage of the fault. 

It is imperative to discuss your case with an experienced personal injury attorney. An attorney can help you determine whether you have a valid claim for damages. They can also review your case to see who may be held liable for your injuries.  

Injured in a Bike or Motorcycle Accident? Contact Our Office. 

Were you or a loved one injured in a bike or motorcycle accident in Los Angeles or the surrounding areas?  Contact our office at (213) 232-4848 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. 

We have recovered millions of dollars on behalf of our clients, and we will fight for you. Do not wait. Call our office today to speak with an attorney. Let us get you the justice you deserve. We are experienced lawyers that will not give up.