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This article will help people under Wisconsin’s motorcycle helmet laws. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the ins and outs of these crucial regulations, helping you stay safe and informed while riding in the Badger State.
What about helmet laws in Wisconsin? Gruber Law Offices discusses these laws here.
Wisconsin’s motorcycle helmet law distinguishes between riders based on their age and riding experience. Riders under 18 and those with instructional permits are required to wear helmets.
For riders over 18, the choice of whether to wear a helmet is left up to the individual rider.
In Wisconsin, the Wisconsin motorcycle helmet laws are as follows:
Wisconsin law explicitly requires individuals holding an instructional permit to wear a helmet while operating a motorcycle. Taking a motorcycle safety course is also recommended for all riders.
If an individual is caught operating a motorcycle without a helmet or protective face shield while in possession of an instructional permit, they may incur a fine of up to $200.
In addition to helmets for certain riders, Wisconsin law mandates that all motorcycle riders, regardless of age or experience, wear protective eyewear, such as a protective face shield attached to their helmet. This requirement is part of the state’s universal helmet law, aiming to provide an extra layer of safety for all riders.
Not only does protective eyewear shield your eyes from debris and insects, but it also helps prevent eye injuries in case of an accident. Following the motorcycle safety foundation’s recommendations, it’s essential to comply with these regulations for a safe riding experience.
While not legally required, Wisconsin also recommends that riders wear additional protective gear such as:
This extra protection can potentially help minimize injuries in case of an accident, making it a sensible precaution for all riders.
If you’re injured in a motorcycle accident in Wisconsin, you may be eligible for compensation as motorcycle accident victims can, depending on the specific facts of the case, receive compensation for:
We often receive questions similar to the following, “I wasn’t wearing a helmet at the time of the crash - does that mean I cant get compensation for my motorcycle crash?” This is a common misconception and also is a complicated issue but the short answer is that in Wisconsin “yes” you can still receive compensation if you weren’t wearing a helmet at the time of the accident. To be clear, yes you can still recover compensation without having worn a helmet.
In certain circumstances, it’s important to keep in mind that insurance companies may attempt to reduce the amount of recovery if you weren’t wearing a helmet..
Wisconsin does not mandate bicycle helmets, but riders must obey traffic laws and are encouraged to wear helmets for safety. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation strongly advises that bicycle riders use helmets to minimize the risk of head and neck injuries in an accident. This is likely based on the fact that studies have shown that helmets in bicycle crashes reduce the risk of head and brain injuries by 85-88%, facial injuries by 65%, and serious head injuries among children by 69%
As for mopeds and scooters, Wisconsin law does not mandate helmet use. In all cases, prioritizing safety and using appropriate protective gear can save lives and prevent severe injuries.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) strongly supports the use of motorcycle helmets, citing their effectiveness in preventing fatalities and injuries. According to the NHTSA, helmets are 37% effective in preventing fatal injuries to motorcycle riders. In line with this, the Motorcycle Safety Foundation also emphasizes the importance of wearing helmets for rider safety.
All helmets must comply with the Department of Transportation’s Federal Motorcycle Vehicle Safety Standard 218, ensuring they meet safety specifications designed to protect riders in case of an accident. Wearing a helmet endorsed by the NHTSA is a responsible choice that can save your life on the road.
Violating Wisconsin’s helmet law can result in penalties ranging from $10 to $200, depending on the circumstances.
Our powerful team handles serious motorcycle crashes throughout Wisconsin. We know what it takes to win! Our results speak for themselves.
Be sure to discuss any questions you may have with your Wisconsin motorcycle accident lawyer.
And keep in mind that Wisconsin is not a no-fault state. You can also read more about Wisconsin's comparative negligence law here.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult with a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation.
Attorney Steven Gruber was born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. His family has deep roots in the Wisconsin legal community, as his father, David, founded Gruber Law Offices almost 40 years ago and his mother, Nancy, is a managing attorney with the firm. Steven is an award-winning attorney who focuses on serious injury cases and firm strategy and operations. Some of Steven’s awards and memberships include National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Trial Lawyers, Top 10 Attorney in Wisconsin by the National Academy of Personal Injury Attorneys, The National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40, and the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, just to name a few. He has successfully handled cases regarding serious matters that have been publicized by the Today Show, Good Morning America, ABC, Fox and many other media outlets. At Gruber Law Offices, Steven also manages and leads a powerful team of 130 talented professionals. He is proud to continue the family legacy of positively impacting our community.
