Definition of the Offense
According to BikePortland.org, anyone 16 years old or younger must wear a bike helmet. Riders must also wear helmets while riding a bike on a highway or "on premises open to the public."
Endangering Self or Others
Oregon considers not wearing a helmet an action that endangers a rider or a passenger. This includes parents of children under age 16 years and who are riding on a highway or a place open to the public.
Penalties for Not Wearing a Helmet
Under Oregon state law, if the rider is not wearing a helmet, then the rider can be fined up to a maximum of $25. For endangering himself or others, he can be fined up to $25.
Exemptions From Wearing a Helmet
A bicyclist can be exempt from wearing a helmet if the helmet violates her religious beliefs, or the practice of her religion.
Oregon Standards for Helmets
State law says that the state's Department of Transportation will adopt helmet standards, and that these standards align with either the United States Department of Transportation, Snell or the American National Standards Institute.
