Wyoming has certain laws and restrictions in place for motorcyclists, which you should be aware of if you own or ride a motorcycle in the state. Read on to find out why you should always wear a helmet when riding a motorbike, what the laws in Wyoming require, and how those rules can affect you in the event of an accident. Consider consulting with a certified legal representation.
Law Requiring Motorcycle Helmets in Wyoming
To ensure the safety of all motorcyclists, “universal” helmet rules are in place in many states. There are motorcycle helmet laws in Wyoming; however, not everyone must comply with them.
Helmets are obligatory for all motorcyclists under the age of 18. However, only those under the age of 18 are allowed to ride as passengers. Young motorcyclists in Wyoming are required by law to wear approved safety helmets that are “securely fastened” (31-5-115).
Underage riders and passengers are required to have adult supervision while on “public highways, streets, and thoroughfares.” It does not, however, cover minors who ride as passengers in enclosed cabs or as drivers or passengers on mopeds and scooters.
To protect your head, why should you use a helmet?
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that bikers always wear helmets because:
- They are more likely to be engaged in an accident and are more likely to suffer serious injuries or even death if they are in one.
- Motorcyclists are especially vulnerable to serious and sometimes fatal head and neck injuries.
- By reducing the rate of deceleration of the skull upon impact, spreading the force of the impact over a broader area, and protecting the skull from direct contact with hard surfaces, helmets reduce the likelihood of fatalities and serious damage to the head and brain in the event of an accident.
- Non-helmeted motorcyclists have a much higher risk of serious head trauma and death.
Should Bikers Make Their Passengers Wear Helmets?
Only riders and their passengers under the age of 18 are required by law in Wyoming to wear helmets while operating a motorbike. Motorcycle riders aged 18 and up are exempt from the mandatory helmet law.
Can I File a Motorcycle Accident Claim Without a Helmet?
You shouldn’t have any trouble getting compensated for your losses if you’re in a motorbike accident, even if you didn’t wear a helmet.
