Confusion over the Florida Motorcycle Helmet Law
As I travel around the great state of Florida, I meet many people who ride. I have recently been asking them if Florida has a helmet law? The majority answer no. This is not correct. In 2000 the helmet law was amended to allow riding without a helmet, if you met certain requirements.
What Does the law say?
Let’s look at what is required under the Florida Motorcycle Helmet Law to be able to ride without a helmet.
Age Requirement
First and foremost, you must be at least 21 years old to participate. If you are under the age of 21, you must wear a motorcycle helmet in Florida.
Medical Insurance Requirement
Second, you must have medical payments coverage of at least $10,000. This could be through your motorcycle policy or a health insurance policy. If it is through your motorcycle policy, it is called medical payments. Your private health insurance plan would also qualify but check to make sure it does not exclude injuries on a motorcycle.
Veterans
If you are under VA or Medicare, those would qualify, but there are some restrictions on VA coverage, such as you must be retired from the military, or 100% disabled. Check with your VA representative for confirmation of coverage.
PIP Insurance
PIP insurance on your auto policy does not cover you on a motorcycle. Be sure to get the Medical Payment coverage on your motorcycle policy if needed.
Passenger Requirement
If you are a passenger on a motorcycle, you must be covered under your own policy, unless the rider and passenger are both covered under the same health care coverage.
Florida Residents
If you are not a resident of Florida, and you wish to ride without a helmet in the Sunshine State, you fall under the same requirements as stated above.
Support ABATE
The right to choose in Florida was a hard fight for 20 years. Help us continue to keep our rights in the Sunshine State by becoming a member of ABATE of Florida. Go to abatefloridainc.com for more information.
Until next month’s issue of Sophisticated Biker, Ride Safe, Ride Free.
BB
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