Bicycle Helmet Rules in Missouri

Bicycle Helmet Rules in Missouri

exercise image by Mat Hayward from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>

Helmet laws in Missouri are confusing. Cyclists are subject to both state and county regulations at any given time. When riding your bike in Missouri, know that helmet laws vary by location.

Bicycle helmets

Prevent Head Injury
biker helmet in spring forest image by Maxim Petrichuk from Fotolia.com

According to MayoClinic.com, "wearing a bicycle helmet is the most effective way to prevent a life-threatening head injury." Whether you're a child or an adult, helmets are a necessary safety precaution.

State Laws

The state of Missouri currently has no bicycle helmet laws. However, they do have strict regulations regarding lights, lane changes, and sharing the road.

County Laws

According to the Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute, most counties in Missouri require children ages 17 and under to wear helmets at all times. However, some counties demand that all cyclists wear helmets.

Hillsdale and Wellston County

Both Hillsdale and Wellston County have no helmet regulations. These are the only two counties in Missouri where riders of all ages are not required to wear helmets.

Fines and Penalties

Many counties have enforced a $5 to $25 fine for breaking helmet laws. In most cases, they can be waived by showing a receipt from purchasing a helmet.

Article Written By Ryan Tuck

Born in Colorado, Ryan Tuck grew up with the outdoors in his backyard. After attending Whitworth University in Washington state, he returned to his hometown and built a popular hiking and biking trail guide. Today, Tuck helps others enjoy the outdoors by writing for Trails.com.

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