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Pennsylvania Helmet Law

After 35 years, Pennsylvania has become the 31st state to no longer require helmets under certain circumstances.  The new law went into effect on September 4, 2003.

A motorcyclist will no longer be required to wear a helmet if the rider is:

  • a person 21 years of age or older who has been licensed to operate a motorcycle for not less than two full calendar years.
  • a person 21 years of age or older who has completed a motorcycle rider safety course approved by the department or the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.
  • a passenger 21 years of age or older if the motorcycle driver meets one of the qualifications for not wearing a helmet.

It is important to note that helmet use is still mandatory for all motorcyclists who:

  • are under age 21 - this applies to both drivers and passengers
  • have not been licensed for over 2 years
  • have not passed the motorcycle safety test
  • are passengers of a driver who does not meet the requirements for helmet-free riding.

Protective eyewear is still mandatory for all riders.

Injured in a motorcycle accident? Put our experience to work for you.

For over 25 years, our attorneys have represented more than 30,000 people who have been injured in all types of accidents including motorcycle accidents. In addition our legal team has answered over 350,000 injury-related legal questions. When a motorcycle injury occurs and legal help is needed, experience counts.

Free Legal Evaluation

If you, or someone you care about, have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you can contact our law firm for a free evaluation by:

  • Filling out a simple online form so we can evaluate your claim
  • Calling toll free 1-866-881-3317. Our phones answer 24 hours a day/7 days a week

Our law firm will evaluate your claim free of charge and advise you on your legal rights to collect compensation. There is no obligation to use our services, and there is never a fee unless we get money for you.

Source: Snowbeck, Christopher. "Helmet law generates dual over statistics". Pittsburgh Post Gazette. 7 July 2003. <http://www.post-gazette.com/localnews/20030707helmet0707p2.asp> The General Assembly of Pennsylvania House Bill No. 384 Session 0f 2003. <http://www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/BI/BT/2003/0/HB0384P0448.HTM> The General Assembly of Pennsylvania Senate Bill No. 259 Session 0f 2003. http://www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/BI/BT/2003/0/SB0259P0265.HTM Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Editorial:  http://www.post-gazette.com/forum/20030904edhelmet0904p3.asp