California Motorcycle Helmet Laws (2024) 

While some states have relaxed their motorcycle helmet laws, California has mandatory helmet laws.  

California has long prioritized motorcyclist safety, and this is evident in legislation. California is among the 17 states that requires helmet use for all riders.  

The specifics of California’s helmet laws are as follows according to California Vehicle Code Article 7: 

•       A driver and any passenger must wear a safety helmet that meets established California requirements when operating or riding a motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, or motorized bicycle.
•       It is unlawful to operate a motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, or motorized bicycle if the operator or any rider is not wearing a safety helmet as designated by California law.
•       It is unlawful to ride a motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, or motorized bicycle if the operator or any rider is not wearing a safety helmet as designated by California law.
•       A safety helmet must be worn with the straps fastened and an appropriate fit, meaning there is no excessive vertical or lateral movement.

Helmet Requirements for Motorcyclists in the State of California 

The law sets clear expectations for how a helmet should be worn.  

Motorcyclists are held legally accountable for buying and wearing a helmet in a way that will protect them. 

The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) also provides guidelines for helmet requirements based on CVC 27803.  

These safety standards ensure that motorcyclists obtain quality protective gear and reduce counterfeit or unsafe motorcycle helmets.  

Motorcycle riders should consider these features to avoid buying a counterfeit helmet that is not DOT compliant. 

What is a DOT Compliant Helmet? 

Inner Liner 

A Department of Transportation (DOT) approved helmet should have a thick inner liner covering the entire interior. 

However, in many counterfeits or poorly made helmets, the liner is thin and only covers the top of the helmet. They will often have poor-quality foam underneath. 

If you cannot see the liner, you should be able to feel the coverage and thickness. 

Helmet Hardware and Composition 

The hardware on the helmet should feel durable and sturdy, including grommets or rivets. 

The chin strap should feel sturdy and firmly attached.  

When you hold the helmet, it should be about three pounds, which is the average weight of a quality DOT compliant helmet. 

Labeling 

Labeling is yet another indicator of a safe helmet.  

While counterfeiters may include some false labeling, it is less likely they will include a false DOT label and a fraudulent SNELL or ASII, which conform to standards more stringent than the federal minimums.  

You should also expect a manufacturer label indicating the manufacturer’s name and date, model number, and size. 

Penalties for California Helmet Law Violation 

The penalties for not wearing an appropriate DOT compliant helmet can affect you in more ways than just getting a ticket.  

Failing to wear your helmet is a moving violation and may result in a fine.  

In some instances, it could result in probation time and a fine. If you are also found to be in violation of other traffic laws, this could escalate to charges like reckless driving. 

Motorcyclists that do not wear helmets are at risk of serious injuries.  

You may be willing to risk the dangerous injuries of a motorcycle accident, but behavior like this can leave you vulnerable to significant financial burdens from civil proceedings. 

You May Be Entitled to Compensation if You Are Injured in a Motorcycle Accident.  

In a California motorcycle accident, your compensation amount is affected by California’s pure comparative negligence laws.  

This legislation allows you to claim compensation, even if you have contributed to your own injury, but the settlement amount is reduced by your liability percentage. 

For example, suppose a cyclist is thrown from their bike and suffers a motorcycle accident injury that leaves them disabled.  

If the facts of the case suggest the helmet would have prevented the injuries, the rider may be unable to recover their losses completely.  

The other parties insurance company could argue the rider is largely responsible for their own injuries, jeopardizing the rider’s settlement award. 

If You Were Involved In A Motorcycle Accident, Contact The Sacramento Motorcycle Accident Attorneys At Curtis Legal Group Today. Our personal injury lawyers are experienced in California personal injury law and will fight to get you maximum compensation. 

Schedule a free consultation with our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers today to discuss the details of your personal injury claim.