In Washington, state bicycle laws do not require cyclists to wear a helmet. However, many counties and cities make it illegal to ride a bike without one. In Orting, for example, all bike riders under the age of 17 must wear a helmet. In Poulsbo, you have to wear one if you are under 18.
Can I ride a bike without a helmet in Seattle?
Washington state law does not require bicyclists to wear a helmet while riding. … Today, all bicyclists within King County (including in the city of Seattle) are required to wear a protective helmet while they are riding.
Is it illegal to cycle a bike without a helmet?
There’s no law which compels cyclists of any age to wear a helmet. However, it’s obviously dangerous to cycle without one, and the Highway Code suggests all cyclists wear a safe and well-fitting helmet regardless of what the laws says.
Do you have to wear a helmet in Washington?
Washington law requires all motorcycle operators and passengers to wear a helmet conforming to the rules adopted by the Washington State Patrol. The helmet must be equipped with either a neck or chin strap, which must be fastened securely when the motorcycle is in motion.
Are bike helmets required in King County?
It’s the law! In July 2003, the King County Board of Health extended the King County bike helmet regulation (PDF) to include Seattle. The new rule went into effect in August 2003 and requires that all bicyclists (regardless of age) must wear a helmet. … Avoid fines, fees, and injuries by wearing a bike helmet!
Is it illegal to ride a bike on the sidewalk in Washington state?
Generally, it is legal to ride a bicycle on a sidewalk in Washington. However, the state law has a provision that allows local municipalities to prohibit cycling on sidewalks in a business district.
What percentage of cyclists wear helmets?
Approximately 38 percent of adults who ride bicycles wear a helmet regularly, and 69 percent of children under the age of 16 do so as well.
Do you have to wear a helmet on a bicycle in Spokane Washington?
Bicycle Helmets – Currently, there is no state law requiring helmet use. However, in the City of Spokane, it is the law to wear a helmet when doing any wheeled sport (including bicycling). Riding on the Road – When riding on a roadway, a cyclist has all the rights and responsibilities of a vehicle driver (RCW 46.61.
Do you have to have mirrors on a motorcycle in Washington state?
Motorcycle Equipment Required in Washington
All motorcycles must have mirrors on the left and right sides allowing the driver to see at least 200 feet to the rear. Motorcycles must also have a windshield unless the operator is wearing safety glasses, goggles, or a face shield approved by Washington state patrol.
When did Washington State require motorcycle helmets?
Legally, wearing a helmet in Washington was optional, until 1967 when a helmet law was passed and later repealed, only to be replaced by a new law requiring helmets for riders 17 and younger. A universal helmet law was not in place until Washington state legislature passed RCW 46.37. 530, in 1990.