
Is there a law in Florida that needs motorcyclist, and those on a moped or motor scooter to put on a helmet? The answer is yes and no.
“Florida's helmet law is unique which in turn causes confusion among riders,” says Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of Insurance, Florida's top independent motorcycle insurance company.
Florida's helmet law was repealed in 2000. The current law is really as follows: Any rider under 21 years of age must wear head gear. If you're over 21 and licensed to operate a motorcycle in Florida, you've options. If you opt to wear head gear, motorcycle insurance coverage is not necessary. However, if you opt to ride without a helmet, motorcycle insurance coverage is a must. The motorcycle insurance policy must provide at least $10,000 in medical benefits for injuries incurred because of a crash while operating or riding on a motorcycle.
The helmet law also does not affect any person 16 or older who operates or rides on the motorcycle run by an electric motor with a displacement of fifty cubic centimeters or less or perhaps is rated not in excess of 2 brake horsepower and which is not able to propelling the motorcycle in a speed more than 30 mph on level ground.
While head gear is optional for riders over 21, eye protection is obligatory for everyone. All motorcycle drivers and riders, regardless of age must wear eye protection. Anyone who rides in an enclosed side car isn't subject to Florida's helmet or eye protection laws.
Wearing a motorcycle helmet saves lives. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) reports, “In 2021 using motorcycle helmets saved approximately 1,872 lives. An additional 749 lives could have been held in 2021 if all motorcyclists had worn helmets.
There are also economic benefits to wearing a helmet and carrying motorcycle insurance. “While motorcycle insurance is not necessary, if a motorcyclist is charged within an accident, they are financially responsible for injuries and property damage.” says Buck, Vice President of Insurance.
According to The National Highway Safety Traffic Administration (NHSTA) “Nearly $3.5 billion in economic costs and $21 billion in comprehensive costs were saved in 2021 by the use of motorcycle helmets.”