Posted on 10/07/24
Motorcycle riders in New York must follow the rules of the road to operate their motorcycle on public roads throughout the state. To obtain a motorcycle license, you must learn and be able to demonstrate these rules. One core component of that process is understanding New York motorcycle helmet laws. A Buffalo motorcycle accident lawyer at Towey Law, PLLC, can help if injured in a crash.
Motorcycle Helmet Law in New York
In 1967, New York became the first state to require all motorcycle riders to wear a helmet. This law is still in place today. If you are on a bike, you need to wear a helmet. This falls under New York’s Vehicle & Traffic Law, section 381. The law specifically requires that anyone in the state riding a motorcycle must wear an approved motorcycle helmet. The helmet must be approved by the US Department of Transportation.
To determine if the helmet meets the requirements, look for the DOT approval sticker on the helmet. This sticker, often on the exterior of the helmet, indicates the Federal Motorcycle Vehicle Safety Standards for motorcycle helmets are met in that helmet model. The helmets meet the safety standards set under the law. Specifically, look for a tag that reads: “DOT, FMVSS No. 218, CERTIFIED.” All manufacturers of helmets that design them to meet this standard can use this statement on a sticker placed on the helmet. If that sticker is not there, even if it is a new helmet, it may not meet the state’s safety standards.
Additional Rules for Motorcycle Riders
In addition to a helmet, the state also requires those operating a motorcycle to have a face shield on their helmet or goggles in place. These must also be approved by the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles to be safe and protective.
It is important to note that not all helmets sold in the US must meet these standards. Many of them do not meet these standards at all. More so, other helmets may contain fake stickers. This can make it hard for riders to know that the helmet they are wearing is, in fact, safe for them. If you are in doubt, verify the manufacturer details before buying the helmet.
Violations of the Motorcycle Helmet Law
Those who operate a motorcycle without a helmet are violating New York’s motorcycle helmet laws. This could mean you must pay a fine of up to $100 and up to 30 days in jail (one or both may apply depending on the situation).
Wearing a motorcycle helmet is important because of the reduction of risks it creates. There is no way to know what another vehicle operator on the road may do that could cause you to suffer an injury. With the help of a helmet, you may be able to reduce some of the severity of your injuries. That may even protect your life. If you ha
If you are planning to ride a motorcycle, make sure you know and follow New York motorcycle helmet laws. Doing so helps to protect you physically but also helps reduce the risk of costly fines.