There’s something undeniably exhilarating about hopping on a motorcycle and hitting the road in Wisconsin. You could be weaving through rolling farmland or cruising alongside the lakes; it’s one of those experiences that makes you feel more alive. For some riders, that thrill includes feeling the wind on their face, helmet-free. But are there helmet requirements for Wisconsin motorcycle riders? Let’s find out.
Wisconsin Motorcycle Helmet Law
In Wisconsin, the helmet law is relatively more relaxed compared to other states, but it’s still on the books. Whether or not you legally have to wear a helmet depends mainly on how old you are and what kind of license you have.
Who Has To Wear a Helmet in Wisconsin?
- Anyone under 18 must wear a helmet, no exceptions. If you’re riding a motorcycle and you aren’t 18, you need to strap on that helmet.
- Anyone with an instructional permit (even if you’re above the age of 18) also has to wear a helmet. Until you get your full Class M license, the helmet is non-negotiable.
If you’re 18 or older and fully licensed, then you aren’t required by law to wear one. It’s your decision.
What About Passengers?
Motorcycle helmet rules for passengers are the same. If the passenger is under 18 or riding with someone on a permit, they have to wear a helmet. If both of you are legal adults and the motorcycle operator is fully licensed, then legally speaking, you can both ride without one.
Is it Prudent to Skip Helmet Use?
Remember: just because it’s legal doesn’t necessarily make it smart. Statistically, people who wear helmets increase their chances of surviving a motorcycle crash. When you wear an approved helmet with a protective face shield attached, you’re taking preventative steps to mitigate the risk of catastrophic motorcycle accident injuries, such as neck injuries, spinal cord injuries, or traumatic brain injuries.
Without a helmet and protective gear, even a seemingly minor Wisconsin motorcycle accident can turn deadly. So yes, Wisconsin law gives you the option, but it’s a decision that comes with real risks.
What Other Gear is Required in Wisconsin?
Consider this situation in Wisconsin: You’re over 18 and you aren’t wearing a helmet. Are there still gear rules you need to follow? Yes. Eye protection is mandatory unless your motorcycle has a windshield that rises 15 or more inches above the handlebars. That means helmet glasses, goggles, or shatter-resistant sunglasses.
Even if you’re skipping the helmet, you cannot go full bare-faced. You need to wear protective eyewear that meets Wisconsin motorcycle safety standards.
What Happens If You Break the Helmet Law?
Let’s assume you’re 17 and decide to ride without a helmet in Wisconsin. What could go wrong? Well, aside from putting your life in danger, you could also get a ticket. Fines for failing to wear a helmet are approximately $175.00 but can be more with court costs and fees. However, the real complications for motorcycle accident victims start if you’re in a crash.
Legal & Insurance Consequences
If you’re supposed to be wearing a helmet and you aren’t, insurance companies might argue that your failure to wear a helmet contributed to your injuries. That means they could reduce your claim payout or deny it altogether.
Wisconsin follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means that if you’re partially to blame for your injuries, you could see a reduction in compensation. So if not wearing a helmet made your injuries worse, expect that to come up in the claims process.
Insurance Coverage and Helmet Requirements
Most Wisconsin motorcycle insurance policies don’t mandate helmet use for adult riders. However, if you’re violating helmet laws like riding helmetless on a permit or if you’re under 18, your insurance provider might use that as a reason to limit or deny your compensation. When in doubt, always check your auto insurance policy.
Tips on Selecting the Right Helmet
If you’re planning on wearing a helmet (and we hope you are), here are a few tips:
- Make sure it has a DOT certification
- Go for full-face for maximum protection
- Pick something that fits snug but not uncomfortably tight
- Look for models with good ventilation and visibility
And stay far away from novelty helmets. They might look cool, but they don’t offer adequate protection.
Take a Motorcycle Safety Course if You Are a New Rider
If you’re planning to hit the road on two wheels, you should sign up for a motorcycle safety course (preferably through the Motorcycle Safety Foundation). This is one of the best things you can do for yourself. Don’t think this step is about checking a box to get your motorcycle license in Wisconsin. It will help you acquire real-world skills that could save your life.
Even though Wisconsin only has a partial helmet law, these courses always emphasize just how important motorcycle helmet use really is. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation backs a lot of this education and follows federal helmet requirements when it comes to funding and safety standards.
Whether it’s a motorcycle accident, a car accident, or a crash involving bicycle riders, things can go south quickly if you aren’t protected. So learn the basics, know the risks, and gear up the right way every time you ride.
Get High-Powered Legal Representation from Our Wisconsin Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
Accidents happen fast. When they do, the aftermath can be devastating. That’s where we step in. Our Wisconsin motorcycle accident lawyers at Gingras, Thomsen & Wachs will aggressively negotiate a settlement on your behalf with the insurance company, while remaining prepared to go to trial if needed.
We have spent decades representing injured individuals and families across Wisconsin, and we know how to fight for what’s right. Along the way, we have been honored to receive awards such as:
- Best Lawyers in America
- Wisconsin Super Lawyers and Rising Stars
- Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review Ratings
- Madison Magazine’s Top Lawyers
- Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum
For us, more than these honors, what matters is if we can help injured victims and their families recover financial compensation to rebuild their lives. To schedule your free consultation, call us at 855-954-1186 or contact us online.
