Utah law requires helmets for all motorcycle operators and passengers under 21. Understanding how this law applies to you can help you protect your rights. The attorneys at Feller & Wendt, LLC™, are here to provide key information about Utah’s motorcycle helmet law.
Do I Need a Motorcycle License in Utah, and How Do I Get One?
You must have a valid driver’s license with a motorcycle endorsement to ride your bike in Utah. To get a Utah motorcycle license, you must first obtain a temporary learner permit. This option is available if you’re at least 16 years old, have a valid Class D or Commercial Driver’s License, and pass the vision and motorcycle written tests.
Once you receive your learner’s permit, you will need to complete a test demonstrating your riding skills. There are two ways to satisfy this requirement:
- Take the test with the Utah Driver License Division.
- Take a Motorcycle Safety Foundation Beginning Rider Course. You’ll receive a completion card after you complete the course. You can show this card when applying for a motorcycle endorsement and skip the driving skills test.
What Are Utah’s Current Motorcycle Helmet Requirements?
According to Utah helmet laws, you do not have to wear a helmet on a motorcycle in Utah unless you are under the age limit.
Age-Based Requirements
Utah law requires motorcyclists under age 21 to wear a helmet. This law applies to both operators and passengers. Helmets must comply with federal safety regulations.
Exceptions and Special Circumstances
The motorcycle helmet law in Utah applies to all of the following vehicles:
- Motorcycles
- Motor-driven cycles
- Class 3 electric bicycles
- Autocycles that are not fully enclosed
Helmets are not required for individuals riding within an enclosed cab in Utah.
How Does Not Wearing a Helmet Affect Your Legal Rights?
Utah has a modified comparative negligence system for personal injury cases. Under this system, each party involved in an accident is assigned a percentage of fault. You may only recover compensation if you’re less than 50 percent at fault for the accident. Your motorcycle claim’s value will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you.
In many states with similar systems, a motorcyclist may be considered partially at fault for their injuries if they didn’t wear a helmet. However, Utah law prevents this from happening. The state’s motorcycle helmet law establishes that not wearing a helmet isn’t considered contributory negligence and may not be used as evidence in personal injury cases.
Despite this fact, insurance companies may try to minimize your compensation because you weren’t wearing a helmet. They may argue that wearing a helmet could have prevented or lessened your injury. They may be unaware of Utah’s law prohibiting this or try to take advantage of your lack of legal knowledge. A lawyer can fight these claims and protect your right to fair compensation.
What Safety Equipment Should Utah Motorcyclists Use?
Wearing a helmet is just one component of motorcycle safety, but wearing other types of gear and maintaining them properly can further reduce your risk of injury.
Choosing a DOT-Certified Helmet and Types of Helmets
Not all motorcycle helmets are created equal. Wearing a Department of Transportation-certified helmet is the safest option. You’ll notice a DOT symbol on the outside back if it’s certified.
Be cautious when looking for a helmet. Some retailers sell novelty helmets that don’t meet DOT requirements. You may also encounter helmets with fake DOT labels, so only purchase motorcycle helmets from reputable retailers.
Make sure your helmet fits your head shape and size for maximum safety. Motorcycle helmets come in various shapes for different head shapes, including round oval, intermediate oval, and long oval. You’ll want to measure your head and follow the manufacturer’s size chart. A properly fitting helmet will be comfortably tight and not move when you shake your head.
There are also several different helmet styles to consider:
- Full-face helmets cover your entire head and face. This helmet type is aerodynamic and comfortable, and provides excellent protection. This is the recommended helmet type to prevent severe head and neck injuries.
- Half helmets cover only the top of the head, leaving the face, neck, and back exposed to direct impact.
- Open-face helmets cover the top and back of your head. They expose your face to the elements and offer minimal protection.
Additional Recommended Safety Gear
In addition to a DOT-approved helmet, it’s important to use other protective gear when riding a motorcycle:
- Abrasion-resistant jacket with a close-fitting collar, snug cuffs, and zippered front
- Well-fitting, full-fingered gloves
- Abrasion-resistant pants that cover the full leg and have a close-fitting waist
- Sturdy boots covering the ankle
Basic Maintenance Requirements
Maintaining your motorcycle helmet allows it to continue offering optimal protection. Here are basic maintenance tips to keep in mind:
- Clean the visor after every ride.
- Tighten the straps for a snug fit before every ride.
- Replace the visor immediately if it gets scratched.
- Replace your helmet every five years or after an accident.
How Can Feller & Wendt, LLC™ Help With Your Utah Motorcycle Accident Case?
You have the right to seek fair compensation after a motorcycle accident. This is true even if you weren’t following Utah’s motorcycle helmet law. Feller & Wendt, LLC™ can help you pursue the results you deserve if you or a loved one was injured in a motorcycle crash.
We have a track record of recovering maximum compensation for people injured in motor vehicle accidents throughout Utah. Our client testimonials also speak to our commitment to helping clients rebuild their lives. If you or a loved one was harmed while riding a motorcycle, contact us today to start moving forward with a free consultation.
*This information provided by Feller & Wendt, LLC™ is for informational purposes only and should be in no way construed as legal advice.
