Motorcycles offer a sense of freedom on the open road, but they also come with increased risks. To promote safety and reduce the risk of serious injuries, Louisiana enforces a universal motorcycle helmet law. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to motorcycles, understanding these regulations is essential for both safety and legal protection.
At The Burrell Firm LLC, we represent motorcyclists who have been injured in accidents and help them pursue compensation for their injuries. In this post, we break down what Louisiana’s helmet law requires, who it applies to, and how it may affect your personal injury claim.
Louisiana’s Helmet Requirement
Under Louisiana Revised Statutes § 32:190, all motorcycle riders and passengers are required by law to wear a helmet, regardless of age or experience. The helmet must comply with certain safety regulations, including:
- A securely fastened chin strap
- A liner and padding for impact protection
- Approval by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)
This law applies not only to motorcycles but also to motor-driven cycles, scooters, and mopeds.
Why Helmet Use Matters
Helmets are one of the most effective safety tools for motorcyclists. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that wearing a helmet lowers the risk of death in a motorcycle accident by 37% and greatly decreases the likelihood of sustaining a head injury.
In Louisiana, wearing a helmet is not just about legal compliance—it’s a critical step in protecting your life and reducing the severity of injuries in an accident.
Penalties for Failing to Wear a Helmet
If you’re caught riding without a helmet in Louisiana, you could face:
- Fines and court fees
- Points added to your driving record
- Possible insurance rate increases
In addition, not wearing a helmet can hurt your personal injury claim if you’re injured in a crash, as it may be seen as contributing to the severity of your injuries.
How Helmet Use Affects Injury Claims
If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident without wearing a helmet, your injury claim may become more complex. Louisiana operates under a comparative fault system, which means any compensation you receive can be reduced in proportion to your level of fault—including the decision not to wear a helmet.
If a court determines that your injuries were worsened because you didn’t wear a helmet, your compensation may be reduced—even if the accident itself wasn’t your fault.
For example, if you suffer a head injury and were not wearing a helmet, the defense may argue that your decision contributed significantly to the severity of your injury.
Exceptions to the Helmet Law
Louisiana’s helmet law is strict, but there are a few limited exceptions:
- Enclosed three-wheeled motorcycles equipped with safety belts and a roll cage may not require a helmet.
- Parades or special events with authorized permits may sometimes allow exceptions (though rare).
Always verify with local authorities before assuming an exception applies.
Stay Safe and Protected
Riding a motorcycle requires attention, skill, and responsibility. Wearing a DOT-approved helmet is one of the easiest ways to reduce your risk of serious injury. Compliance with Louisiana’s helmet law not only keeps you safe but also helps preserve your right to full compensation if you’re ever injured in a crash.
Injured in a Motorcycle Accident? The Burrell Firm LLC Can Help
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident in Louisiana, with or without a helmet, The Burrell Firm LLC is ready to provide the legal support you need. We understand how to navigate the complex factors involved in motorcycle injury cases and will fight to ensure your rights are protected.
We offer free consultations, so don’t wait to get the guidance and advocacy you need.
Contact The Burrell Firm LLC today to speak with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney in Louisiana.
