If you are a motorcyclist in Tennessee, you need to know the helmet laws and regulations that apply to you. Wearing a helmet can save your life and prevent serious brain injuries in case of an accident. But not all helmets are created equal. You need to make sure your helmet meets the standards and specifications required by the state. In this guide, we will explain the helmet law in Tennessee, compare it with other states, show you how to find approved helmets, list the exceptions to the law, and share some safety stats. Let’s get started!
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Motorcycle Helmet Laws in Tennessee
Tennessee is one of the 19 states that require all riders to wear a helmet, regardless of their age. This means that whether you are 16 or 60, you have to wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle. However, there are some age-based restrictions. If you are 21 years or older, your helmet should meet some specifications. The helmet must be approved by the Department of Transportation (DOT) and provide adequate ventilation. It should also have a sticker inside that shows it is certified by one of the following organizations:
- Snell Memorial Foundation,
- American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM),
- Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), or
- Southern Impact Research Center (SIRC).
The outer shell of the helmet should not be smooth or continuous; it should also cover your head from all sides. The helmet should fit snugly but comfortably on your head, so that only one finger can fit between it and your scalp.
How Does Tennessee Compare with Other States?
You might be wondering how Tennessee compares with other states when it comes to helmet laws. Well, Tennessee is among the stricter states that require all riders to wear a helmet. Eighteen states only require riders 17 and younger to wear helmets, and nine states only require riders 20 and younger to wear helmets. There are only three states that have no helmet laws at all: Illinois, Iowa, and New Hampshire. So, if you are riding in Tennessee, you have to follow the helmet law, or you might face a fine or a citation.
Where to Find Approved Helmets?
Now that you know the helmet law in Tennessee, you might be wondering where to find approved helmets. The good news is that there are many options available online and offline. You can check out the websites of the organizations that certify helmets, such as DOT, CSPM, SNELL, or SIRC. You can also visit local motorcycle shops or dealerships and look for helmets that have the stickers or labels that indicate they are approved. When buying a helmet, make sure it meets the standards and specifications mentioned above. The helmet should also provide adequate ventilation and fit snugly but comfortably on your head.
Are There Any Exceptions to the Law?
You might be thinking that there are some situations where you don’t have to wear a helmet in Tennessee. Well, there are a few exceptions to the helmet regulations, but they are very limited. The helmet laws do not apply to any persons riding:
- Within an enclosed cab
- On a motorcycle that is fully enclosed that has three wheels in contact with the ground, weighs less than 1,500 pounds and can maintain all posted speed limits
- On a golf cart
- In a parade, at a speed not to exceed 30 miles per hour, if the person is 18 years of age or older
- In a funeral procession, memorial ride under a police escort, or body escort detail, provided that the driver travels at a speed not to exceed 30 miles per hour, the driver or passenger is 21 years of age or older, and the funeral procession, memorial ride, or body escort detail does not exceed a distance of 50 miles.
Why Should You Wear a Helmet?
You might be wondering why you should wear a helmet in the first place. Well, the answer is simple: because it can save your life and protect your brain. According to Griffith Law, motorcycle helmets reduce the risk of death by 37 percent in case of a crash. Helmets also prevent 67 percent of accident victims from suffering severe and life-threatening brain injuries. Helmets save about 2,000 lives a year, and they could save an additional 800, if worn properly ⁹. Don’t you think that’s a good enough reason to wear a helmet?
Final Thoughts
We hope this guide has helped you understand the helmet law in Tennessee, and how to choose the right helmet for riding. Wearing a helmet is not only a legal requirement, but also a smart and safe choice. A helmet can make a huge difference in your survival and recovery in case of an accident. So, don’t hesitate to invest in a quality helmet that meets the standards and specifications required by the state. And remember, always wear your helmet when you ride. It could save your life! If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to let us know. We would love to hear from you!