California helmet laws and safety equipment for motorcyclists
Learn about California motorcycle requirements so you can stay safe on the road
In 1992, California joined many other states across the U.S. by requiring anyone riding a motorcycle or motorized bike to wear a helmet. Notably, that law led to a drop in motorcycle accident-related deaths by more than 37.5 percent within a year.
The mandatory California motorcycle helmet law states that it’s “unlawful to operate a motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, or motorized bicycle if the driver or any passenger is not wearing a safety helmet.” It’s important to note that this law is not restricted to motorcyclists but includes any passenger on the motorcycle.
Approved motorcycle helmets
According to Vehicle Code Section 27802, California has the right to establish the safety specifications and standards for all safety helmets sold for use by passengers and riders, meaning that helmets must comply with the safety regulations established by the federal government.
The Department of Transportation (DOT) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides the following minimum requirements for motorcycle safety helmets:
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- Inner liner. Helmets must have a firm, 1-inch-thick polystyrene foam liner that lines the inside of the helmet.
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- Helmet weight. Helmets must weigh approximately 3 pounds.
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- Sturdy, riveted chin straps. Helmets must have chin straps attached using sturdy rivets.
- Limited protrusions. Helmets should not have any features or design functions that protrude more than two-tenths of an inch from the surface. Spikes and other decorative features are prohibited, whereas visor fasteners are okay.
Helmets that meet federal regulation standards can be identified by a DOT sticker. Be sure not to remove this sticker, as it will make it more difficult to prove you are using an approved helmet in the event you’re pulled over.
How to correctly wear a motorcycle helmet
California law categorically states that a person shall be deemed to be wearing a helmet only if:
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- The straps of the helmet are fastened;
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- The helmets fit the heads of the rider well and in a secure manner; and
- There are no lateral or vertical movements when the helmet is affixed.
Consequences of not wearing a motorcycle helmet
Not wearing a helmet on California roads is a criminal offense punishable by a fine of up to $250 and/or a 1-year probation. Please be aware that if you’re seriously injured in an accident and you aren’t wearing a helmet, your ability to recover monetary damages from insurance entities could be compromised.
Other essential gear to wear on California roads
The best motorcycle safety equipment on the market is primarily designed for maximum crash protection. Other intended uses include protection from rain, sunburns, wind, insects and dust. The following equipment, while not mandated by law, can help to keep you safe on the road:
Gloves
Gloves play a crucial role in shielding your hands from chapping due to wind effects on your exposed knuckles. Gloves also help maintain a safe grip. Consider using insulated gloves to avoid getting stiff from the cold.
Jackets
Riding jackets are designed in different styles and fabrics, such as leather, canvas or denim. Jackets are crucial in helping guard the trunk of your body against the wind. The extra padding on these jackets is also vital in case of an accident since they can act as shock absorbers, reducing the impact of the ground. Some of the different types of jackets include:
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- Bomber jackets
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- Moto Jackets
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- Leather jackets
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- Double riders
- Leather jacket
Pants
Wearing everyday pants while riding a motorcycle isn’t advised because your legs aren’t protected in the event of an accident. Motorcycle-specific riding pants will also help protect your legs from the wind. Some of the best riding pants to consider include:
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- Leather pants
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- Riding jeans
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- Mesh pants
- Full-textile pants
Boots
While riding a motorcycle, it’s imperative not to wear footwear like sandals or sneakers that don’t provide protection. Always make sure you wear premium ankle-high boots made of solid material, such as leather. Test out the shoes before embarking on your journey to ensure they fit well and are properly strapped. The following are some of the boot styles to consider:
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- Street boots
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- Sport track boots
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- Touring boots
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- Dirt bike boots
- Adventure boots
Importance of wearing proper gear on the road in California
According to California law, riding a motorcycle without proper gear is a criminal offense punishable by law, so be sure to wear one every time you go out on the road.
In addition to the legal incentives, wearing proper motorcycle gear has clear benefits for both riders and their passengers. If you’re involved in a road accident, protective gear like a helmet, jacket and pants can protect your head and body from injury due to impact and possibly save your life.
If you’re injured in an accident on a California or Texas roadway, contact the experienced personal injury attorneys at MVP Accident Attorneys. Our practice focuses exclusively on personal injury cases, so we know how to deal with insurance companies and can develop a strategy that best suits you and your specific case.
Contact us today for your free, no-obligation consultation so we can help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Author
Brett Sachs
Brett S. Sachs graduated from Michigan State University College of Law with Cum Laude Honors. While attending Michigan State, Brett was awarded for his service in the Michigan State University College of Law Civil Rights Clinic, where he represented prisoners of the Michigan Department of Corrections from injustices brought upon them. Learn more.
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