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FAQs About Pennsylvania’s Motorcycle Helmet Laws
Many motorcyclists are enjoying the beautiful few months they have to ride. Motorcyclists understand the dangers they may face while on the road, but many do not understand what the law says surrounding motorcycle helmets. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about the motorcycle laws in the state, and the answers to them.
Are Motorcycle Helmets Required in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania law requires any individual that rides or operates a motorcycle to wear a helmet unless they are over 21 years old. Individuals over the age of 21 can choose to not wear a helmet when they are riding or operating a motorcycle as long as they have at least two years of experience on a bike, or if they have taken a motorcycle safety course approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
What are the Requirements for a Pennsylvania Motorcycle Helmet?
Motorcyclists cannot strap on any helmet and think that they are complying with Pennsylvania law. To adhere to the standards of the state, motorcycle helmets must display a “DOT” sticker and must have permanent labelling in regards to the following:
- Identification or name of the manufacturer
- Designation of the precise model
- Size
- The year and month the helmet was manufactured
DOT stickers must be centered on the back of the outside of the helmet. Other information, such as the name of the manufacturer, must be labeled somewhere on the helmet in a place that does not require someone to remove the padding or any other piece of the helmet to find it.
Do Motorcycle Helmets Interfere with Vision?
No. All DOT-approved helmets offer a field of vision of a minimum 210 degrees. This far exceeds the 120 degrees required for a person to obtain their motorcycle license, even considering that Pennsylvania’s field of vision requirement is more rigid than most states.
Do Motorcycle Helmets Interfere with Hearing?
Many people are hesitant to wear a helmet because they think it will interfere with their hearing, making it more difficult to hear their surroundings. This is untrue. In fact, because the wind and engine noise are so loud on a motorcycle, a helmet can muffle these sounds, so motorcyclists can hear what is most important – their surroundings.
Does the Use of a Helmet Lead to Neck Injuries?
Many people think that a helmet only protects their head and leaves their neck exposed, meaning they are more at risk for a neck injury. This is not true. Not only do motorcycle helmets protect against a head injury, but studies have also shown that motorcycle helmets also help prevent neck injuries.
Our Pennsylvania Motorcycle Accident Lawyers can Help with Your Injury
Wearing a motorcycle helmet while out riding is important for everyone, but they do not always prevent injuries after an accident. If you have been hurt while on your bike and someone else caused the crash, our Allentown motorcycle accident lawyers can help. At van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin, we have the necessary experience to help you with your accident claim, and give you the best chance of success with it. Call us today at (215) 610-3440 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
Resources:
sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/03/(215) 610-34405.htm
legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/legis/LI/consCheck.cfm?txtType=HTM&ttl=75&div=0&chpt=35&sctn=25&subsctn=0
