Motorcycle Helmet Laws in California
California law makes it mandatory for all riders in the state to wear helmets. By riders, it means both drivers and passengers. The helmets must comply with state and federal law requirements, and the compliant helmets are required for both motorcycles and motorized bicycles.
Although it is tempting to ride without a helmet to enjoy “maximum freedom” in the open air, it is against the law for anyone who does that, and this is simply for the protection of the riders and passengers.
Unlike automobiles, motorcycles do not have protection equipment that has proven to reduce the risk of injury or fatality, such as airbags and seat belts. However, the National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that helmets saved the lives of 1,872 motorcyclists in 2017. NHTSA adds that had all motorcyclists worn helmets, there could have been an additional 749 lives saved as a result.
The same NHTSA data shows that helmets are estimated to be about 37-percent effective in preventing fatalities to motorcycle riders and about 41 percent for motorcycle passengers.
This is the reason why states like California have taken measures to require the mandatory wearing of all riders and passengers because helmets save lives.
Police have also upped their enforcement of helmet laws in the state. If you try to drive or ride a motorcycle without a helmet, chances are very good you will be spotted and stopped by police. If you are stopped for not wearing a mask, a ticket is sure to follow, and the penalty for riding without wearing a helmet is a fine of up to $250 per offense. The fines will be higher if, besides not wearing a helmet, you were also breaking other laws such as reckless riding or speeding.
In some extreme cases, your motorcycle could be impounded by law enforcement.
Call a Beverly Hills Motorcycle Accident Attorney
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer at Jalilvand Law can help you understand what your rights are. Contact us today for a free consultation.
