Understanding Arizona’s motorcycle helmet laws is crucial for riders to ensure their safety and compliance with state regulations. While helmets are not required for all riders, specific age restrictions and safety guidelines apply. Read on to learn more about who must wear a helmet and how Arizona’s laws impact motorcyclists.
Is Arizona A Helmet Law State
Yes, Arizona is a partial helmet law state, requiring helmets for all motorcyclists and passengers under the age of 18. Riders 18 and older are not legally obligated to wear helmets, though it is highly recommended for safety.
However, adult riders should be aware that, in the event of an accident, not wearing a helmet could influence insurance claims and liability assessments under Arizona’s comparative negligence principles, potentially reducing compensation if the lack of a helmet worsens the rider’s injuries. Arizona motorcycle accident lawyer can play a key role in protecting your rights in such cases and helping you navigate the complexities of liability and compensation, especially when helmet use may be a factor in your case.
Arizona Motorcycle Helmet Law and Safety Regulations
Arizona operates under a partial helmet law, obligating all motorcyclists and passengers under 18 to wear helmets, as required by A.R.S. § 28-964. For those 18 and older, helmet use is optional.
In Arizona, the fine for not wearing a helmet when under 18 or for wearing a non-compliant helmet can vary depending on the local jurisdiction, but it is generally around $50.
Despite the absence of a universal mandate, safety experts strongly recommend helmets to minimize injury risks. In line with federal standards, any helmet used must comply with FMVSS 218, ensuring it meets safety benchmarks.
Additionally, Arizona law mandates eye protection for all riders unless the motorcycle is equipped with a windshield.
Things To Consider When Wearing A Helmet In Arizona
According to the Motorcycle Helmet Use in 2022 report by NHTSA, 7.4% of non-compliant helmets were worn in states where not all riders are required to use a helmet, compared to 11.3% in states with mandatory helmet laws. The use of non-compliant helmets significantly undermines safety, as they may not provide adequate protection in the event of an accident.
This highlights the importance of choosing a helmet that complies with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 218. Helmets meeting this standard undergo rigorous testing for impact resistance, penetration protection, and retention system strength, ensuring they offer the best defense against serious head injuries. When selecting a helmet, make sure to look for the following features:
- FMVSS 218 Compliance
Look for a DOT sticker on the back of the helmet to confirm it meets Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 218. Always purchase from reputable retailers to avoid counterfeit products that may not comply with safety standards. Ensure the helmet is within its recommended lifespan, typically five years from the date of manufacture. - Proper Fit
Measure your head and follow the manufacturer’s sizing guide. The helmet should feel snug without being uncomfortable. Make sure it stays secure when you move your head, but doesn’t cause pressure points. - Retention System
Fasten the chin strap and test its security by trying to remove the helmet. The strap should hold the helmet in place without excess movement. If the strap or buckle shows signs of wear, it’s time to replace the helmet. - Eye Protection
If your motorcycle does not have a windshield, wear goggles, a face shield, or other protective eyewear that meets safety standards. Ensure the eyewear fits securely and provides clear visibility. Look for impact-resistant materials, such as polycarbonate, to safeguard against debris, wind, and insects. For added safety, choose eye protection with anti-fog and UV protection features.
By following these steps when selecting a helmet, you can enhance your safety and reduce potential legal risks, especially in the event of an accident.
How Arizona Helmet Law Affects Insurance And Settlement In Motorcycle Accident
In Arizona, even though you’re not required to wear a helmet if you’re over 18, your decision to wear one can impact how much compensation you might receive after an accident. If you’re not wearing a helmet, insurance companies might claim your injuries were more severe because of it, potentially reducing your payout under comparative negligence rules. This means you could be seen as partly responsible for the extent of your injuries, even if the accident wasn’t your fault, leading to a reduction in compensation by 10% to 50%.
However, if you’re wearing a helmet during the crash, it strengthens your case. It shows you took reasonable steps to protect yourself, which can help you avoid any reduction in your settlement. In other states with stricter helmet laws, like California, wearing a helmet is expected, but in Arizona, it’s still a key factor in securing full compensation after an accident. By wearing a helmet, you protect not only your safety but also your legal standing in case of an accident.
Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents Without a Helmet
Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents are all too common in Arizona. In fact, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), there were over 2,500 motorcycle accidents reported in the state in 2022 alone, many of which resulted in serious injuries or fatalities. If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident without wearing a helmet, the risk of severe injuries significantly increases. The most common and severe injuries in motorcycle accidents without a helmet include:
- Head trauma: Including concussions, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
- Facial injuries: Lacerations, fractures, or disfigurement.
- Neck and spine injuries: Whiplash, vertebrae fractures, or spinal cord damage.
- Severe road rash: Abrasions leading to infection or scarring.
- Cervical spine injuries: Damage to the cervical vertebrae can cause limited mobility or paralysis, affecting the ability to breathe or move limbs.
- Permanent cognitive impairment: As a result of severe brain injuries, riders may experience permanent loss of cognitive abilities, including memory, decision-making, or personality changes.
- Loss of consciousness or coma: Severe head injuries may cause immediate loss of consciousness or lead to a coma, sometimes lasting indefinitely.
- Fatal injuries: Increased risk of life-threatening trauma.
These injuries often lead to extensive medical care and rehabilitation. Wearing a helmet can significantly reduce the likelihood and severity of these outcomes, though it’s not mandatory in states like Arizona.
Helmet or Not? The Real Risks for Arizona Motorcyclists
Statistics show that wearing a helmet significantly reduces the risk of serious injury or death in motorcycle accidents. According to the NHTSA, helmets are estimated to be 37% effective in preventing fatal injuries to motorcycle riders. In a crash, an unhelmeted motorcyclist is 40% more likely to suffer a fatal head injury and 15% more likely to experience a nonfatal injury compared to a helmeted rider.
In Arizona, where helmet use is only required for riders under 18, studies have found that motorcyclists without helmets are at a much higher risk of severe head injuries.
Protecting Your Rights After a Motorcycle Accident in Arizona
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, especially without a helmet, having Arizona motorcycle accident lawyer support is essential for protecting your rights and understanding your options for fair compensation. In Arizona, where helmet use is optional for adults, insurance companies may argue that your injuries are more severe due to the lack of a helmet. This can affect liability assessments under comparative negligence principles, potentially reducing your compensation if it’s determined that the absence of a helmet contributed to the severity of your injuries.
With experience in motorcycle accident cases, the team at Esquire Law, operating in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, and Tucson, can help ensure that the other party’s fault is properly considered as the primary cause of the accident. We work to make sure that medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages are fully addressed, even when helmet use is a factor. Understanding these legal principles can help you navigate the complexities of Arizona law and avoid unfair penalties.