El Centro Motorcycle Helmet Laws

Knowing and complying with traffic laws is essential for motorcycle owners in California. Similar to some other safety regulations, many have long argued against the government enforcing regulations to wear helmets. Not only is it illegal to ride without them, but it also increases the risk of life-threatening and fatal injuries significantly.

Further, when negligent motorists cause motorcycle crashes, failing to adhere to the safety statutes can affect the settlement amount you collect. For more information, speak to a knowledgeable lawyer at Walter Clark Legal Group about El Centro motorcycle helmet laws.

Why Everyone Should Wear Helmets and Safety Gear

Everyone should wear motorcycle helmets and other safety gear to protect them while riding for many reasons. Accidents are often the most severe for bikers, potentially leaving them with:

• Skull fractures
• Brain damage
• Back or spinal cord injuries leading to long-term and permanent disabilities

Wearing head safety gear substantially reduces the risk of those injuries.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a significant number of motorcycle collisions—approximately 80 percent of crashes—result in severe and life-altering injuries or death. Those wearing safety gear are nearly 40 percent less likely to suffer fatal injuries and 15 percent less likely to sustain non-fatal injuries than riders who fail to wear the equipment.

According to the agency’s ten-year study, wearing a DOT-compliant helmet saved over 7,000 lives. An attorney knowledgeable about El Centro motorcycle helmet regulations can help collect damages after crashes caused by someone else’s carelessness.

State Motorcycle Helmet Regulations

All motorcycle operators and passengers in California, including in El Centro, must wear helmets that meet the guidelines and quality and safety standards provided by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). Operators and passengers must also ensure they wear helmets correctly and fasten the chin strap.

The helmet regulations apply to motorcycles, mopeds, scooters, and motorized bicycles. Those failing to comply with state traffic regulations are subject to fines.

DOT-Compliant Standards and Requirements

Simply wearing a helmet is not enough. Operators must also ensure that the safety helmets and other gear and equipment meet federal safety standard guidelines. According to the California Vehicle Code § 27803, safety helmets must meet or exceed the minimum requirements provided by DOT. They must provide adequate protection for the individual’s head during the impact. That includes the helmets having a sturdy outer shell and the following:

• Sturdy chin strap and solid rivets
• Inner liners, at least 3/4 of an inch thick
• The weight of the helmet must be one pound or less
• Helmets must successfully pass Impact attenuation, penetration, and retention tests

The helmet must also fit the rider or passenger’s head snuggly, but not too tightly and not obstruct their view. Approved helmets will have a DOT sticker on the back for confirmation.

Speak to an El Centro Attorney About Motorcycle Helmet Laws

Many residents in California own motorcycles and enjoy riding as much as the weather permits. Compliance with El Centro motorcycle helmet laws is required and can save your life.

When a careless motor vehicle driver causes an accident resulting in your harm, you have the right to pursue legal action and collect monetary damages. Schedule a consultation with one of our seasoned lawyers at Walter Clark Legal Group if you have questions or need help with a case.