Who can ride without a helmet
Every motorcycle operator and rider must wear a crash helmet unless the exception in MCL 257.658(5) applies. A person 21 or older may ride without one if:
- The operator has had a motorcycle endorsement for at least 2 years, or has passed a motorcycle safety course; and
- Medical coverage of at least $20,000 in first-party medical benefits is in place for the operator, and for a passenger, $20,000 per person.
A passenger 21 or older may ride without a helmet if the passenger or the operator carries that $20,000 coverage. Anyone under 21 must wear one.
Helmets and an injury claim
Riding without a helmet does not bar a claim against the driver who caused the crash, and it has nothing to do with your PIP benefits. In a lawsuit, the at-fault driver’s insurer may argue that not wearing a helmet made a head injury worse and that your damages should be reduced under comparative fault. It has no logical bearing on a broken leg or a spinal injury.
Who pays a rider’s medical bills after a crash with a car depends on Michigan’s priority rules for motorcyclists. See motorcycle accident claims.
Hurt in a motorcycle crash? Request a free case review or call.
Sources: MCL 257.658; MCL 500.3114(5); MCL 600.2959.
Questions people ask us
Is there a helmet law in Michigan?
Yes. Every motorcycle operator and passenger must wear a crash helmet unless they are 21 or older and meet the exception in MCL 257.658(5): for the operator, 2 years with a motorcycle endorsement or a passed safety course, plus at least $20,000 in first-party medical coverage.
Can a passenger ride without a helmet in Michigan?
Only if the passenger is 21 or older and either the passenger or the operator carries at least $20,000 in first-party medical coverage for the passenger.
Does riding without a helmet hurt my injury claim?
It does not bar a claim and does not affect PIP benefits. In a lawsuit, the at-fault driver’s insurer may argue it made a head injury worse.
