Helmets
What is Maine's Law on Helmets
Bicycles and roller skis
29-A MRS §2323(1) states, “A person under 16 years of age who is an operator or a passenger on a bicycle or an operator of roller skis on a public roadway or a public bikeway shall wear a helmet of good fit, positioned properly and fastened securely upon the head by helmet straps.” 29-A MRS §2326 states, in part, “A person who violates section 2323, subsection 1 commits a traffic infraction.” 29-A MRS §2063(14)(H)(3) states, “A person under 16 years of age who is an operator or passenger on an electric bicycle shall wear a properly fitted and fastened bicycle helmet.”
Motorcycles and mopeds
29-A MRS §2083(1) identifies persons who must wear protective headgear: “If under 18 years of age, a passenger on a motorcycle or moped or in an attached side car; if under 18 years of age, an operator of a motorcycle or moped; an operator of a motorcycle or moped, operating under a learner's permit or within one year of successfully completing a driving test; and a passenger of an operator required to wear headgear.” Subsection 5 states, “Violation of this section is a traffic infraction.”
ATVs
According to 12 MRSA §13157-A(13) and (14), respectively, “A person under 18 years of age may not operate an ATV without protective headgear” and “a person may not carry a passenger under 18 years of age on an ATV unless the passenger is wearing protective headgear.” A person who violates these subsections “commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged.”Snowmobiles
12 MRS §13106-A(25) addresses headgear requirements for operators of a snowmobile.
Up to date through the 2nd Regular Session of the 132nd Maine Legislature.
Return to What's Maine's Law on...
The Law and Legislative Reference Library provides this website for informational purposes only. It does not constitute an interpretation of the law, legal advice, or a legal opinion. There might be other statutes, rules, ordinances, or case law that are relevant to this topic. For advice on a specific legal matter, you need to contact an attorney.