Nevada’s Mandatory Helmet Law
Helmets have been proven to help prevent serious head injuries and brain trauma. In fact, statistics show that helmets save lives. While it is recommended that all Nevada residents wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle or a bicycle, not all riders are legally required to do so.
It is important that all Nevada Motorcycle Drivers follow the law and actively seek out ways to better protect themselves in case of an accident.
Understanding Nevada Helmet Laws
Nevada Mandatory Helmet Law is contained within Nevada Revised Statute 486.231, entitled “Protective headgear and glasses: Standards; when use required.” Subsection 2 of that statute provides that drivers and passengers of motorcycles “shall wear protective headgear securely fastened on the head” in addition to protective glasses, goggles or face shields.
There are limited exceptions to this rule. For example, when a motorcycle (or trimobile) is equipped with a transparent windscreen, the driver or passenger need not wear glasses, goggles or face shields. NRS 486.231(3). Protective devices, including a helmet, are not required when the motorcycle is being driven in an authorized parade. NRS 486.231(4). Furthermore, only riders on motorcycles that can travel over 30 miles per hour are required to wear protective headgear.
Should I wear a helmet during Nevada bike ride?
In Nevada, you are not legally required to wear a helmet while riding a bicycle. Only bicyclists under the age of 17 on the Duckwater Indian Reservation or the Reno/Sparks Indian Colony are required to wear a helmet. All other riders, children and adults alike, are allowed to ride without a helmet.
Nevada is 1 of 19 states that have a mandatory non-age or insurance related helmet law. There are only two states (Illinois and Iowa) that have no helmet law. The remaining states permit cyclists to ride without helmets depending upon their age and insurance coverage.
What are the penalties for not wearing a motorcycle helmet in Las Vegas, Nevada?
In Las Vegas, Nevada, those caught not wearing a helmet while riding a motorcycle can face fines and other legal penalties. The Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles has set the maximum fine for violating the mandatory helmet law at $250, plus court costs and administration fees.
Depending on the severity of the violation, Motorcycle Operators may also be subject to additional penalties such as license suspension or revocation. Furthermore, failure to wear a helmet may also impact the rider’s ability to recover damages in the event of an accident.
Which Types of Helmets Are Required in Nevada?
In Nevada, all motorcycle riders and passengers must wear a helmet that meets or exceeds the standards set by the United States Department of Transportation (DOT). Helmets should be properly fitted and secured to ensure maximum safety.
Additionally, helmets must have a chin strap securely fastened at all times while riding. It is important to note that non-compliant helmets are not allowed even if they are worn for decorative or novelty purposes.
What Are the Benefits of Wearing a Helmet While Riding in Nevada?
There are many benefits to wearing a helmet while riding in Nevada. First and foremost, helmets protect riders from serious head injuries in the event of an accident. According to studies conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcycle helmets can reduce fatalities by 37 percent and severe injury by 69 percent.
In addition to the physical benefits, wearing a helmet while riding in Nevada also provides legal protections. Under Nevada state law, those who fail to wear a helmet may be subject to fines and other penalties. Furthermore, those who are involved in an accident while not wearing a helmet may have difficulty recovering damages in court.
Finally, wearing a helmet can provide psychological benefits as well. Many riders feel more confident and secure when wearing a helmet, allowing them to enjoy their ride with peace of mind.
Common causes of motorcycle crash-related injuries
Riding a motorcycle can be an exhilarating experience, but it also comes with its risks. The most common causes of motorcycle crashes are:
- Collisions with fixed objects, such as trees, guardrails, or buildings.
- Loss of control due to speeding, road conditions, or mechanical failure.
- Collisions with fixed objects, such as trees, guardrails, or buildings.
- Riding under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Motorcycle Accident Attorneys in Las Vegas
Properly fitting helmets can help absorb the impact sustained during a collision. Every year, many people suffer fatal head injuries or catastrophic brain injuries because they fail to wear a helmet. Wearing a helmet will not only offer you protection in the event of a crash, but also demonstrate that you are a safe rider and that you took every possible precaution before getting on the roadway.
Even with all the right precautions, however, accidents still happen. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a motorcycle or bicycle accident in Nevada that was caused by a negligent driver, call the skilled Las Vegas personal injury lawyers at Shook & Stone at 702-570-0000 for a free consultation and comprehensive case assessment.