Yes, you have to wear a helmet on a motorcycle. In fact, motorcyclists and passengers alike are legally required to wear a helmet, regardless of their age or level of experience. This law is designed to reduce the risk of serious or fatal injuries in the event of a crash.
Helmets play a major role when it comes to protecting riders from traumatic brain injuries and other head-related trauma, both of which are often life-altering consequences of this type of incident. It’s important to understand motorcycle safety laws in the area.
If you have any questions about helmet-related regulations or need legal advice in the aftermath of a collision, reach out to a Boston motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. Your attorney will help you figure out what to do next.
Massachusetts Motorcycle Helmet Law: An Overview
Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90, Section 7, can answer the question, “Do you have to wear a helmet on a motorcycle?”
It states that all motorcycle operators and passengers are required to wear protective headgear that meets the safety standards established by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV).
This law applies to the following parties:
- All riders, regardless of age
- All passengers, regardless of age
- All motorcycles, mopeds, and motorized bicycles
Massachusetts does not offer any exemptions based on age, riding experience, or insurance coverage. The universal nature of the helmet law means that every individual on a motorcycle—whether driving or riding—is subject to the same rules.
Helmet Standards and Requirements
Not just any helmet qualifies under Massachusetts law. The helmet must meet safety specifications as outlined by the RMV, which typically align with federal standards set by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT).
Helmets must meet these requirements:
- DOT-approved indicated by a DOT sticker
- Properly fastened with a chin strap
- In good condition, without visible damage or excessive wear
Helmets that meet Snell or ECE certification standards also offer additional protection, though only DOT certification is required by law.
The law also mandates the use of eye protection unless the motorcycle is equipped with a windshield. Eye protection often includes a face shield, goggles, or other shatterproof glasses designed for motorcycle use.
Penalties for Not Wearing a Helmet
Violating the motorcycle helmet law in Massachusetts will often result in a fine and other potential consequences. Riders and passengers found without approved helmets often face the following consequences:
- A fine of up to $100
- Possible points on the driver’s license
- Increased insurance premiums
While the monetary fine seems minor, failing to comply with helmet laws typically impacts the outcome of legal or insurance claims if an accident occurs as well.
If you’re injured in a crash while not wearing a helmet, it will likely be used against you during a liability determination or damages assessment, especially if the injury involved head trauma.
Helmet Use and Comparative Negligence in Massachusetts
The state of Massachusetts follows a modified comparative negligence system. Under this system, if a person is injured in an accident and is found partially at fault, they may still recover damages—as long as their share of fault is not greater than 50%.
However, the total compensation is reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to the injured party. Helmet use may become a factor in this analysis. If a motorcyclist was not wearing a helmet during a crash, the defendant may argue that the lack of helmet use worsened the injuries.
Even though Massachusetts law mandates helmet use, courts may consider this behavior under the comparative negligence framework. The concept here is not that the failure to wear a helmet caused the crash, but rather that it contributed to the severity of the injuries.
Are There Any Exceptions to the Helmet Rule For Motorcycles?
Massachusetts law is explicit in its requirement for helmet use, and there are no statutory exceptions. Riders cannot opt out based on insurance coverage, personal beliefs, or experience level.
Religious exemptions or medical waivers are sometimes allowed in other contexts—such as seatbelt laws—though they do not apply under Massachusetts motorcycle helmet statutes. Additionally, motorcycle parades or events do not provide exemptions from helmet use.
Riders participating in rallies or group rides are still expected to comply with the law. There is occasionally confusion due to neighboring states’ more relaxed helmet laws. However, once a rider crosses into Massachusetts, they must comply with the state’s helmet requirements.
Get in Touch with Our Boston Motorcycle Accident Law Firm ASAP to Learn More About Helmet Laws For Motorcyclists
Under Massachusetts state laws, everyone on a motorcycle is required to wear a helmet at all times. If you were involved in a motorcycle-related collision and have questions about what to do in the aftermath of the crash, you don’t have to figure it all out on your own.
Recovering from an experience like this is often overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Instead, let Boston motorcycle accident lawyers help you. At Jason Stone Injury Lawyers, we have 21-plus years of experience handling cases similar to yours.
We’ve helped more than 15,000 people recover over $250 million in compensation. We believe there’s no obligation, just information®. As part of our Stone Cold Guarantee®, we offer free, no-obligation consultations so you never need to reach into your pocket to pay us.
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