What is a Helmet Law?

• Helmets afford motorcycle riders an additional level of protection for one of the most vital parts of the body. Acting in the best interest of the public, government officials passed laws requiring motorcyclists and passengers to wear protective helmets. Disregarding this law means a stiff fine and, in some cases, suspension of a motorcycle license.
  
  

U.S. States Helmet Laws

• Today, most states have a helmet law in place with Arkansas, Florida, Kentucky, Louisiana and Texas requiring riders below the age of 20 to wear helmets. Idaho, New Hampshire, Iowa and Colorado do not have a motorcycle helmet law in effect as of 2009.
  
  

Do Helmet Laws Work?

• According to a 1995 study conducted by the AMA, differences in motorcycle fatalities between states with helmet laws in place and those without were negligible. That same year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that "Helmets are minimally effective in preventing most injuries."
  
  

American Bikers Active towards Education (ABATE)

• With the sudden rise of laws in the mid-1970s, the ABATE movement was formed to unify and voice the opinions of the motorcycling community. Today, every State has an ABATE chapter to represent the rights of the rider before the Senate and are active to educate both lawmakers and individuals.
  
  

The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA

• Formed in 1924, the AMA is the world's largest motorcycle organization, advocating rider's rights in all tiers of U.S. government. The AMA advocates for the voluntary use of helmets, encouraging the use of personal safety gear.