Motorcycle helmet laws vary from state to state. So, do you need one in Wisconsin? You may, but only in select situations. Most drivers are not required to wear a helmet at all if they so choose.
That said, drivers who are still minors — under 18 years old — need to have helmets on whenever they use Type 1 motorcycles within the state. This applies on all state highways. The law also expressly notes that the person must have the chin strap fastened while wearing the helmet.
In addition, motorcyclists who just have instructional permits need to have helmets on as well. Many of these riders are young and inexperienced.
Finally, passengers who are minors also need to have helmets on. Not only is it illegal for the passenger to ride without a helmet, but it is also illegal for the other person to drive the bike — even if that person is 18 years old or older — while the passenger is not wearing one.
Should you wear one? That decision is up to you as long as you have a permit and are at least 18 years old. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that, in 2016, a total of 1,859 lives were saved by helmets. They say that 802 more people would have lived if they had helmets on. Remember, no matter how skilled you are, you cannot avoid all accidents because other drivers make mistakes.
If you get injured on a motorcycle, whether you had a helmet on at the time or not, make sure you know all of your potential rights to compensation.
Source: Bikers Rights, “Age Requirement,” accessed June 01, 2018
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