It is no secret that most states require the use of a helmet, but you may not know that many states often have different rules and regulations which may allow you to never wear a helmet while driving a motorcycle.
When it boils down to it, the question may have crossed your mind, “do you have to wear a motorcycle helmet in Arizona” you will be surprised to know that the law states that only people below the age of 18 are required to wear a helmet.
Despite this, people are required to wear protective eyewear if their motorcycles do not have windshields.
Hopefully, this information is enough to give you a good foundation in Arizona state law on motorcycle helmets.
I will now go in-depth about the state’s rules, so make sure you read the rest of the article to learn more key information.
Motorcycle Helmet Laws And Rules In Arizona
If you are a proud motorcycle owner over 18, you will be either happy or awe-struck to know that you are not legally required to wear a helmet.
Arizona does not place much emphasis on motorcycle helmets and instead only forces operators under 18 to wear them at all times.
The state of Arizona does, however, require that all motorcyclists must wear protective gear for their eyes.
This can include equipment such as glasses, goggles, and even face shields. Even these are not requirements if your motorcycle is equipped with a windshield.
If you are operating a three-wheeled vehicle, regardless of whether or not it has an enclosed cab or if you are driving a moped that only goes up to a maximum of 25 mph, you are not required by the state to wear a helmet, although, it would be a good idea to wear one regardless.
Motorcycle Helmet Requirements In AZ
As half of all helmet-less drivers are the victims of fatal accidents, it is imperative that any helmet you use be of good quality and up to the state of Arizona.
That being said, motorcycle owners below the age of 18 must wear approved helmets that are securely fitted and properly fastened on the head of the rider.
This applies to the passenger as well, all to the point that you cannot even ride with a passenger unless they are wearing an approved motorcycle helmet.
The helmets must be according to the AS/NZS standards and UNECE regulation number 22. They should also have a visible mark that certifies that the helmet complies with these regulations and above standards.
If you are looking for approved motorcycle helmets, then make sure to look for certifications such as BSI, Global Mark, TUV RA & SAI Global, which tend to apply to the above standards.
Along with all of this, it is recommended that you take the time out to buy a helmet that is perfect for you.
This means getting a helmet that is compatible with the shape of your head and is lightweight, comfortable, and durable.
Penalties/Legal Consequences
We have discussed the various requirements and exceptions related to wearing a helmet in Arizona, but what happens if you are caught not abiding by the state?
Aside from the safety risks, there are various major penalties and legal consequences to not wearing a motorcycle helmet when required by the state of Arizona.
If you are caught driving your motorcycle using a helmet or any form of eye protection, you are liable for a fine.
This can range from $25 to $75 if it is your first offense and will only increase if you are caught without a helmet or eye protection again. Depending on the situation, you may also be forced to attend a driving school.
From a legal standpoint, insurance companies can also use this to their advantage in the event of an accident and claim that since the motorcyclist was not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.
He/She’s own negligence has contributed to their injuries and the company may disregard any insurance claim completely. This is often tied to comparative negligence.
Why Should You Wear A Motorcycle Helmet?
Given the various safety hazards that you have to deal with while driving a motorcycle, it is always a given to wear a helmet whenever possible, as it could mean the difference between life and death.
Here are a few reasons why you should always wear a helmet when driving a motorcycle.
1. Protection Against Face Injuries
No one wants to go splat face-first onto the road at 60 mph, and that is something you always risk when driving a motorcycle without a helmet.
At least this way, the helmet can absorb the brunt of the damage and protect your face.
2. Visibility To Others
Most motorcycle helmets come with a reflector that allows others to see you in the dead of night, assuming they cannot see the backlights of your motorcycle. This can be an important tool to help avoid nighttime accidents.
3. Safety From Bad Weather
Your motorcycle helmet can also protect you from the UV rays of the sun, along with keeping your visibility while driving in the rain as it protects from water entering your eyes.
4. It Looks Cool
While generally not a good reason to wear a helmet, it does offer a new form of customization to those looking to add more flavor to riding their motorcycles.
You can match your helmet to your motorcycle or make some interesting color choices.
Get In Touch With Experienced Motorcycle Attorneys In Arizona
If you have been injured or are the victim of an accident, regardless of whether or not you were wearing a helmet, you can never be 100% at fault.
This is why you need to look for the best legal representation team you can find to get justice for you.
Here are a few top-rated motorcycle attorneys that you can contact In Arizona.
1. Lloyd Baker Injury Attorneys
The people at Lloyd Baker Injury Attorneys are committed to bringing you the best legal expertise money can buy.
Whether or not the accident that occurred was your fault, these attorneys will do whatever is legally possible to help alleviate the effects of the accident.
Phone Number: (602) 265 5555
URL: https://powerhouseinjuryattorneys.com/
2. Law Tigers Motorcycle Injury Lawyers
Law tigers is one of America’s most trusted law firms when it comes to the motorcycle community, which is why a massive pool of motorcyclists trust the experience and judgment of the talented lawyers employed by the law firm who will stay by your side.
Phone Number: (602) 560-6124
URL: https://www.lawtigers.com/
3. ELG Accident Attorneys
ELG Accident Attorneys are a team of experienced bilingual personal injury attorneys, assistants, and paralegals who fight hard to get you the best and most compassionate legal representation while aiming to get you the maximum settlement, having over 50 years of combined experience.
Phone Number: (623) 877-3600
URL: https://elgphx.com/
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is It Ok To Wear An Open Face Helmet In Arizona?
Since the state of Arizona has placed a key emphasis on protective eyewear, you can only wear an open-face helmet in the state of Arizona if you are wearing glasses or goggles. The helmet does not matter unless it is also protecting your eyes.
Q2. How Much Is The Fine For Not Wearing A Motorcycle Helmet In Arizona?
If you are caught not wearing a helmet while being below the age of 18, you will be subject to a fine anywhere between $25 to $75 for the first offense.
This also applies to not wearing protective glasses beyond the age of 18. The fine will increase on subsequent infractions.
Q3. When Did Motorcycle Helmet Become Law In Arizona?
The motorcycle helmet laws in the state of Arizona were first enacted in 1976 in an attempt to make sure that young motorcyclists ride with care and with protective gear.
Since its enactment, it has had various different changes over the years and has become what we have discussed in this article.
Q4. Should Passengers Wear A Helmet In Arizona?
Similar to the main laws of the state, the passengers who ride in the state of Arizona are only required to wear a helmet if they are below 18 years of age.
People above 18 are not required to wear helmets but are also required to wear any form of eye protection.
Q5. Are Moped Drivers Required To Wear A Helmet In Arizona?
Even owners of mopeds are required to wear helmets in the event that they are driving below the age of 18.
Similar to the law of the state regarding motorcycles, moped drivers also need to wear helmets until they are 18 unless they have a maximum speed of only 25 mph.
Conclusion
If you have been pondering the question, “do you have to wear a motorcycle helmet in Arizona” hopefully, this article has given the answer you were hoping for.
Now that you know people are required to wear helmets till they are 18 and eye protection regardless of their age, you can make arrangements to adhere to Arizona state law regarding motorcycles so that you don’t get fined.
Despite not being legally required to wear one after the age of 17, it is recommended that you always wear a helmet while driving a motorcycle, as it is crucial for your safety and for your health.
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