Bicycle Helmet Laws by State: Complete 2024 Guide

Bicycle helmet laws vary dramatically by state. Understanding the laws—and how helmet use affects injury claims—is essential for every cyclist.

States with No Helmet Laws

About 23 states have no statewide bicycle helmet requirements:

• Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming

• Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, Nevada

• Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma

• Arkansas, Mississippi, Iowa

• Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana

• Kentucky, South Carolina

• Vermont, New Hampshire

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Local Laws May Apply Many cities and counties have helmet laws even when the state doesn't.

States with Youth Helmet Laws

Most states require helmets for riders under a certain age:

• Under 16: California, Connecticut, Georgia, Maine, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee

• Under 18: Alabama, Florida, Hawaii, Maryland, West Virginia

• Under 12: Louisiana

How Helmet Use Affects Your Case

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If You Weren't Wearing a Helmet

In states with no requirement: Generally, helmet use can't be used against you. The driver is still responsible for the accident.

In states with requirements: If you violated the law, insurance companies may argue:

• Contributory negligence

• Your injuries would be less severe

Reality: Even in no-requirement states, insurers try to reduce compensation by blaming unhelmeted cyclists for head injuries.

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If You Were Wearing a Helmet

Wearing a helmet:

• Shows you were being responsible

• Undermines any negligence argument

• May increase credibility with juries

The Bottom Line

Wear a helmet regardless of legal requirements. But don't let insurance companies blame you for an accident that wasn't your fault.