Frequently Asked Questions
Approved helmets are those that meet U.S. Department of Transportation standards. Helmets that meet FMVSS 218 must have a sticker on the outside back of the helmet with the letters DOT, which certifies that the helmet meets or exceeds FMVSS 218. Read more detail about DOT helmets on the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration website.
If you, as the parent, believe your child is too small to safely ride on an off-road vehicle with a helmet, please do not permit your child to ride on the off-road vehicle.
Yes. The use of a car seat does not exclude a child under age 18 from being required to wear a helmet when riding on an off-road vehicle.
The law pertains to all vehicles that are designed for cross-country travel.
Golf carts are excluded.
When used for farm purposes, the helmet law does not apply. However it does apply when the vehicle is used for non-farm purposes.
Yes, the law applies to all vehicles specifically designed for off-road travel.
Yes.
The law applies to any machine that is designed for cross-country travel. It includes certain battery operated machines, but the common toy machines that are only capable of slow backyard travel are not considered off-road vehicles and helmets are not required for them.
If a vehicle is not registered through the BMV and used for the purpose of cross-country travel it is within the definition that requires a helmet for all occupants under the age of 18.
No. The helmet law applies on public and private property.
The operator of any vehicle is ultimately responsible for any violation, including the failure of the operator to wear a helmet. However, the new law also allows the adult who is responsible for the ATV to be cited for the offense.
