Columbia, MO Motorcycle Helmet Laws

Columbia, MO motorcycle helmet laws, laid out in Revised Statutes of Missouri § 302.020, govern what individuals must wear a helmet when operating a motorcycle and when. Understanding these laws is critical not only to maintaining compliance and avoiding expensive fines and tickets, but also to ensuring you are protected in the event of an accident. Reach out to an experienced motorcycle accident attorney to learn more about these essential requirements and how they may impact you.

Who Has to Wear a Helmet?

Motorcycle helmet laws in Columbia, MO require a helmet to be worn by:

• Motorcycle operators and passengers under the age of 26
• Individuals of any age who operate a motorcycle with an instruction permit, rather than a full license
• Anyone who has not completed a motorcycle safety course approved by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation or the Missouri Department of Transportation
• Anyone who cannot provide proof of financial responsibility, including health insurance with at least $50,000 in medical benefits coverage

Riders and operators over the age of 26 who meet state requirements can choose not to wear a motorcycle helmet.

Assessing Compliance

Under Mo. Rev. Stat. § 302.020(4), Columbia police officers cannot stop or detain a motorcycle rider just to ensure they are following helmet regulations, including checking their age or whether they have completed the relevant training course. However, if a rider is stopped for other reasons, they can face additional penalties for failing to wear a helmet while not meeting those essential guidelines.

The Importance of Motorcycle Helmet Use

While Missouri law does not require the use of a motorcycle helmet for Columbia riders 26 and older who meet the state’s requirements, wearing a helmet can make a big difference in the event of an accident. Helmets significantly reduce your odds of sustaining neck, head, and facial injuries in an accident, many of which can have long-term consequences.

How Helmet Use Impacts Injury Claims

A rider who fails to wear a helmet but otherwise follows all requirements and operates their motorcycle according to the rules of the road may have the right to file a claim for compensation if they suffer injuries in a motorcycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence. However, insurance companies may take the lack of helmet use into account as they determine how much compensation to award.

Missouri’s comparative negligence laws allow for the reduction of injury settlements based on the injured party’s fault, and may also allow for the reduction of a settlement if you did not wear a helmet at the time of your accident. Working with a Columbia lawyer could prove essential to establishing liability and fighting for fair compensation if you have suffered injuries while not wearing a helmet.

Contact a Columbia Lawyer to Discuss How Motorcycle Helmet Laws Will Impact Your Case

Columbia, MO motorcycle helmet laws allow riders who meet state requirements to choose to ride without a helmet. However, doing so can have immense consequences, including an increased risk of injury in a collision and the potential for reduced compensation following an accident.

If you suffered injuries in a motorcycle accident or have other questions about how helmet use could impact your right to a personal injury claim, contact AW Smith Law today. Our lawyers could provide steadfast support as you navigate the claim process. Contact us for a free consultation.