Bicycle Helmet Laws In Washington State
If you're a cyclist in Washington state, it's important to know the laws regarding bicycle helmets. These laws are in place to protect cyclists from head injuries in the event of an accident. In this article, we'll discuss the details of the bicycle helmet laws in Washington state.
Who is required to wear a helmet?
In Washington state, anyone under the age of 18 is required to wear a bicycle helmet while riding. This includes children who are passengers on a bike, as well as those who are riding their own bike.
While it's not required for adults to wear helmets while riding, it's highly recommended. Wearing a helmet can greatly reduce the risk of head injury in the event of an accident.
What are the consequences of not wearing a helmet?
If a cyclist under the age of 18 is caught riding without a helmet, they can be fined up to $30. The fine can be waived if the cyclist can provide proof of purchasing a helmet within seven days of the citation.
While adults are not required to wear helmets, they can still be fined for not wearing one if they are riding in a city or county that has a helmet law. The fines vary depending on the specific law in that area.
What are the requirements for a helmet?
For a helmet to meet the requirements in Washington state, it must be approved by one of the following organizations:
- Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
- Snell Memorial Foundation
- American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)
- United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (USCPSC)
The helmet must also fit properly and be secured with a chin strap.
Why wear a helmet?
Wearing a helmet while riding a bike can greatly reduce the risk of head injury in the event of an accident. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of head injury by 50% and the risk of head, face, or neck injury by 33%.
In addition to protecting against head injuries, helmets can also protect against the sun's harmful rays and help keep you visible to drivers on the road.
Conclusion
While only minors are required to wear helmets while riding a bike in Washington state, it's highly recommended for all cyclists to wear helmets. Not only can helmets greatly reduce the risk of head injury, but they can also protect against the sun and make you more visible to drivers on the road.