Twenty states and the District of Columbia have motorcycle helmet
laws that require all riders to wear a helmet. Twenty-seven states
have a motorcycle helmet law that only require some riders to wear a
helmet. Three states (Illinois, Iowa, and New Hampshire) do not have a
motorcycle helmet law.
Low-power cycle (LPC) is a generic term used by IIHS to cover
motor-driven cycles, mopeds, scooters, and various other 2-wheeled
cycles excluded from the motorcycle definition. While state laws vary, a
cycle with an engine displacement of 50 cubic centimeters or less,
brake horsepower of 2 or less, and top speeds of 30 mph or less
typically is considered an LPC. Twenty-two states have motorcycle
helmet laws that cover all low-power cycles. Twenty-five states and
the District of Columbia have laws that cover some low-power cycles.
Twenty-one states and the District of Columbia have bicycle
helmet laws that require some young bicyclists to wear a helmet. Local
law may require helmet use for some or all bicyclists.
