Bicycle Helmet Safety Law in California

Bicycle Helmet Safety Law in California

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California laws recognize the importance of personal choice, but they also understand that kids younger than 18 years old might not make the best choices. The bike laws take into account both factors and require all minors to wear helmets while bicycling.

Approved Helmets

Helmets must meet the standards of the American National Standards Institute, the Snell Memorial Foundation's Standard For Protective Headgear For Use In Bicycling or The American Society For Testing Materials.

Bike Passengers

Children younger than 4 years old or who weigh less than 40 lbs. and are passengers on a bicycle are required to wear helmets.

Similar Travel Methods

Skateboarders, roller skaters, bladers and scooter riders younger than 18 years old are required to wear a helmet.

Penalties

Anyone who violates these laws is subject to a $25 ticket.

More Restrictive Areas

Anyone riding in El Cerrito or in Bidwell Park in Chico is required to wear a helmet at all times, regardless of their age.

Article Written By Jill Harness

Jill Harness has written on a variety of subjects for more than 10 years. Her work has appeared in various print and online publications, including "San Diego City Beat," "Mental Floss," Rue The Day! and Neatorama. Harness has a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from San Francisco State University.

Write for Trails.com
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