California Bicycle Helmet Laws: What You Should Know

Mission Personal Injury Lawyers | July 20, 2025 | Bicycle Accidents

California Bicycle Helmet Laws: What You Should Know

Riding a bicycle in California is a popular way to stay active and get around town, though it doesn’t come without risks. Wearing a helmet can help protect you in a crash, but is it required by law? It’s important to know what California law says about helmet use so that you can stay safe on the road while on your bike.

This blog post will fill you in on what you need to know about helmet laws for cyclists in California. If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident in the state, reach out to an attorney for a free consultation. 

Who Is Required to Wear a Helmet in California?

Under California Vehicle Code Section 21212, all bicycle riders and passengers under the age of 18 are required to wear a helmet. This law applies whether they’re riding on a public street, a bike path, or in a park.

This includes:

  • Children riding bicycles
  • Children being carried as passengers
  • Anyone under 18 riding a scooter, skateboard, or wearing roller skates

The helmet must be properly fitted and fastened and meet safety standards set by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

Adults over 18 are not required to wear a helmet while riding a bicycle, although doing so is still strongly encouraged for safety.

What Happens if You Don’t Follow the Law?

If a rider under 18 is caught without a helmet, they may face a fine of up to $25 in most cases. However, the court may waive the fine if the rider can show that a helmet was later purchased and a safety course was completed.

While the fine may seem minor, failing to wear a helmet could lead to much bigger problems in the event of an accident. A severe head injury, such as a concussion, could result in significant medical bills, time away from work or school, or permanent damage.

Yes. If you are injured in a bicycle accident and weren’t wearing a helmet when the law required, that could impact a personal injury claim. Even if someone else caused the crash, the other party’s insurance company may argue that your injuries were worse because you failed to wear a helmet.

This could reduce the amount of compensation you’re able to recover for your injuries. In legal terms, this defense is known as “failure to mitigate damages,” though it could also fall under the category of “contributory fault” as well in some circumstances. In either event, it doesn’t bar you from recovering money but might lower your total award.

How To Choose the Right Bicycle Helmet

Wearing any helmet is better than none, but the safest option is one that meets federal safety standards and fits correctly. 

Look for the following when choosing a helmet:

  • A label showing it meets CPSC safety standards
  • A snug but comfortable fit on your head
  • Adjustable straps that stay tight during movement
  • No cracks or visible damage

Helmets should also be replaced after any crash or every few years, as the materials can wear down over time.

Contact the San Diego Bicycle Accident Lawyers at Mission Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today

Bicycle accidents can still happen even when you follow all the rules. If you or your child is injured while riding a bike in California, you may be able to file a legal claim against the at-fault driver or another responsible party.

An experienced San Diego bicycle accident attorney at Mission Personal Injury Lawyers can help you understand your rights and guide you through the legal process. This includes helping you recover money for all of your economic and non-economic damages. Contact us to schedule a free consultation today.

If you’ve been injured in San Diego or Chula Vista, please call Mission Personal Injury Lawyers for a free case evaluation with a personal injury lawyer or contact us online.

We proudly serve San Diego County and throughout California.

Mission Personal Injury Lawyers – San Diego Office
2515 Camino del Rio S Suite 350, San Diego, CA 92108
(619) 777-5555

Mission Personal Injury Lawyers – Chula Vista Office
690 Otay Lakes Rd #130, Chula Vista, CA 91910
(619) 722-3032

We also serve the state of Texas. For legal assistance, contact our personal injury law office in El Paso today.

Mission Personal Injury Lawyers – El Paso Office
201 E Main Suite 106, El Paso, Texas 79901
(915) 591-1000