If you ride a motorcycle in Las Vegas or anywhere in Nevada, knowing the helmet laws isn’t just about safety—it’s about protecting your legal rights.
Nevada Helmet Laws
Nevada has specific rules when it comes to wearing helmets, and if you’re ever involved in an accident, what you were (or weren’t) wearing could make a difference in your claim.
As a rider and a Las Vegas motorcycle accident lawyer, Kevin R. Hansen has seen how helmet use impacts both injuries and legal outcomes firsthand.
Do You Have to Wear a Motorcycle Helmet in Nevada?
Yes. Nevada law requires all motorcycle riders and passengers to wear helmets. This includes:
Riders of motorcycles and mopeds
Passengers
Riders on trikes and three-wheeled vehicles not equipped with enclosed cabins
The helmet must meet U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) standards—meaning it should be properly fitted, securely fastened, and labeled as compliant. Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS 486.231) lays out the helmet requirement clearly.
How Not Wearing a Helmet Affects Your Motorcycle Accident Claim
If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident and weren’t wearing a helmet, that fact could come up in the legal process. But does it mean you can’t get compensation?
Not necessarily. Nevada uses comparative negligence laws, meaning you can still recover damages if you’re 50% or less at fault for the accident. If a negligent driver caused your crash, you can still pursue a claim even without a helmet—but the insurance company might argue that your injuries were worse because of it.
This is where having an experienced Las Vegas motorcycle accident lawyer matters. Kevin R. Hansen and his team know how to push back on blame-shifting tactics and fight for maximum compensation, helmet or not.
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Penalties for Not Wearing a Helmet in Nevada
Riding without a helmet in Nevada is a misdemeanor. If you’re caught, you could face:
Fines
Court fees
Points on your license
But beyond the ticket, not wearing a helmet can make your injury case more complicated. Insurance adjusters may use it as a reason to undervalue your claim.
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Injured in Las Vegas?
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If you’ve suffered an injury in Downtown Las Vegas, you need a Downtown Las Vegas Personal Injury Attorney who knows the ins and outs of Nevada law. At The Law Office of Kevin R. Hansen, we bring over 25 years of expertise in personal injury law to your case.
Common Myths About Helmet Laws
Let’s clear up a few misunderstandings:
Myth 1: You only need a helmet on highways.
False. The helmet law applies everywhere in Nevada, from busy streets to quiet side roads.
Myth 2: Passengers don’t need helmets.
Wrong. Passengers are also required to wear helmets.
Myth 3: Wearing a helmet affects your insurance rates.
Nope. Your insurance premium doesn’t increase just because you wear or don’t wear safety gear. However, insurance adjusters are more likely to deny your motorcycle accident claim.
Can You Still File a Claim Without a Helmet?
Yes, absolutely. You still have legal rights, even if you weren’t wearing a helmet. The key is proving that another party’s negligence caused your accident. Our firm has helped riders who didn’t have helmets recover significant settlements. Every case is different, and your rights don’t vanish because of a helmet ticket.
Safety Tips to Protect Yourself and Your Case
Protect yourself from the dangers that lead to motorcycle accidents:
Always wear a DOT-approved helmet.
Use reflective gear to stay visible.
Avoid blind spots.
Don’t assume drivers see you—make eye contact.
Document the scene after a crash if you’re able.
Call Kevin as soon as possible.
Local Insight from a Las Vegas Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Kevin R. Hansen is more than just a lawyer—he’s a lifelong motorcycle rider who understands what it’s like to navigate Vegas streets on two wheels.
With over 25 years trial experience, he knows Nevada law inside and out and uses that experience to protect injured riders and get them the compensation they deserve. When the insurance companies push back, we push harder.
Injured in a Motorcycle Crash in Nevada?
Whether you were wearing a helmet or not, you still have rights. You will need the best motorcycle accident lawyer possible.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Las Vegas or anywhere in Southern Nevada, reach out to the Law Office of Kevin R. Hansen. We offer free consultations and work on a no win, no fee basis.
Let a real rider who’s a real lawyer stand up for you.
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