If you are visiting from out of state or want to understand California’s helmet laws better, you are in the right place to learn more. California is one of the few states in the United States with clear helmet-use requirements. However, whether you need to wear a helmet is determined by the vehicle you are riding and your age. Even when you are not legally required to wear a helmet, you can still choose to put one on to be extra safe and responsible.
If you are unsure whether you need to wear a helmet, allow us to help. Younglove Law Group is well-versed in personal injury law, including those regarding motorized bikes, motorcycles, and bicycles. Our clients also trust us to work hard to help bring them excellent results. We do our best to help our clients win the compensation they need to recover from injuries as completely as possible.
Who Is Required to Wear a Helmet in California?
There are a handful of legal requirements relating to helmet use in California. These requirements will likely vary depending on the vehicle you intend to use. Please consider our breakdown of these guidelines for assistance.
Do Motorcycle Riders Need to Wear a Helmet in California?
Everyone who rides a motorcycle must wear a helmet in California. Additionally, these motorcycle safety helmets must be US DOT compliant. If you are unsure whether your helmet meets these requirements, we recommend you visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)’s website for more information.
Who Needs to Wear a Helmet on Motor-Driven Cycles and Motorized Bicycles?
Like motorcyclists, anyone who rides a motor-driven or motor-driven bicycle must wear a helmet. Just like those worn by motorcycle riders, these helmets must be US DOT compliant to meet safety standards. Please visit the NHTSA website for more details on picking the correct helmet for your vehicle and head.
Is Everyone Required to Wear a Helmet While Riding Bicycles?
Not everyone who rides a bicycle must wear a helmet in California. However, if you are under 18 years of age, California law requires you to wear a helmet in order to comply with safety regulations. Further, there are additional rules children under five must follow.
Specifically, children five years and under must wear a helmet as a passenger. For example, if a child under five years old is pulled in a trailer or attached to a bicycle in a stroller, they must wear a helmet. It is essential to keep this law in mind if you are a parent or guardian of young children.
How Can a Lawyer Help if You Have Been Injured?
If you have been injured due to no fault of your own, we strongly recommend you reach out to a personal injury lawyer in your area for help. Your attorney can help you in several ways throughout the legal process, including the following:
- Legal knowledge
- Negotiation tactics
- Handle insurance companies and other legal representatives
- Assess the value of your claim
- Speak on your behalf
- Complete and file paperwork
- Maintain your schedule and appointments
- Maximize your compensation
- Reduce your level of fault
- Provide helpful information
- Refer you to medical and other professional specialists
- Lead or join investigations
- Collect and assess evidence
- Reduce your overall stress
It is generally unwise to represent yourself during legal proceedings, as there is a high risk that you will misrepresent your case and lose the compensation you deserve to recover. Working with an attorney is much more likely to bring you the results you want, as your lawyer is far more likely to represent you fairly and help you win the compensation you deserve.
Injured in California? Speak With a Personal Injury Lawyer From Younglove Law Group
If you have been injured in California, including incidents where someone should have been wearing a helmet, the personal injury attorneys at Younglove Law Group might be able to offer some necessary guidance and assistance. We are a compassionate and dedicated team interested in doing right by our clients, including bringing them the compensation they need to recover.
You can get in touch with our legal team by calling (949) 691-3660 or completing our contact form at your earliest convenience, whichever you prefer. You can also call us using our toll-free number at 844-810-1800. Reaching us is a great way to discuss your claims, express concerns, and receive additional helpful information. We look forward to hearing from you.