Boca Raton Bicycle Helmet Laws

It is commonly known that wearing a bicycle helmet could save a rider’s life in the event of an accident. Therefore, it is essential for riders in Boca Raton to comply with specific laws when riding. Given that these regulations may impact a person’s bike injury claim, it is advised that individuals speak with a knowledgeable lawyer about Boca Raton bicycle helmet laws. Our team of experienced bicycle accident attorneys could review your case and explain your rights.

Laws Regarding Bicycle Helmets in Boca Raton

Helmet laws for bicyclists in Boca Raton can be found in Florida Statutes 316.2065. Pursuant to that statute, all bicycle riders or passengers under age 16 must wear a helmet. Despite this mandate, the same statute also provides that the failure to wear a helmet cannot be considered to be used against a person if they were are injured while riding a bicycle. Parents or guardians are also protected under this statute.

Benefits of Wearing a Helmet

While helmets are not required for persons over age 16, it is advisable always to wear a helmet while riding a bicycle, even if a rider is not on a roadway with heavy traffic. It is better to be safe than sorry. Despite Florida law stating that it is not a requirement for persons over age 16 to wear a helmet, it is safer for all riders to wear a helmet. Properly designed helmets may protect a person’s head, neck, and brain from injury. A traumatic brain injury can lead to severe and long-lasting consequences. It could be crucial for riders to understand these benefits and the laws in Boca Raton regarding bicycle helmets when bicycling or considering an injury claim.

Identifying Defective Helmets

Bicycle helmets must comply with the American National Standards Institute, which is also known as the ANSI Z90.4 Bicycle Helmet Standards, the Snell Memorial Foundation, which is also regarded as the 1984 Standard for Protective Headgear for Use in Bicycling. Helmets must also comply with other nationally recognized standards for bicycle helmets adopted by the Florida Department of Transportation.

Helmets should not be worn if they are cracked, broken, or are missing any padding or parts. The best practice is to replace a bike helmet after one impact, such as a fall to the pavement. Even if you might not be able to see the damage visibly, the foam materials in the helmet will crush after an impact. This would prohibit the foam from working to its full potential should a later impact occur.

Speak with a Lawyer About Bicycle Helmet Laws in Boca Raton

Boca Raton bicycle helmet laws may impact in an injury case in numerous ways. A potential bike crash plaintiff should contact an accomplished injury attorney to learn the local helmet laws, the benefits of wearing a helmet, and how to identify defective bike helmets. Reach out to a skilled Boca Raton injury attorney immediately to begin your injury claim. The sooner you reach out to our lawyers, the sooner we could start working to help you. Call today.