Post by Deleted on Apr 14, 2012 15:25:31 GMT -5
Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder signed a bill Thursday giving Michigan motorcyclists the right to choose whether or not to wear a helmet. It allows riders 21 and older to decide for themselves, but they must have at least two years of riding experience or must pass a motorcycle safety course. They
Michigan is the latest state to give adult motorcyclists the right to choose whether they want to 'Easy Rider' it like Billy or wear a helmet.
also are required to carry additional medical insurance if they decide not to wear a helmet, as are motorcycle passengers 21 or older who choose to do the same. Michigan is the 28th state to implement a partial law, while Iowa, Illinois and New Hampshire have no helmet laws at all.
In a press release issued by the governor’s office, Snyder said, “While many motorcyclists will continue to wear helmets, those who choose not to deserve the latitude to make their own informed judgments as long as they meet the requirements of this new law.”
"There is no substitute for proper training, education and awareness when it comes to operating any motor vehicle. We must continue working together to keep our roads safe by making sure that everyone who gets behind the wheel of a car or on a motorcycle has the proper skills. Traffic safety is a responsibility shared by all motorists,” he added.
The bill overturns a 45-year-old law. Michigan began enforcing the helmet law in 1967 to comply with U.S. Department of Transportation requirements. If they didn’t comply, the state wouldn’t have been eligible for federal funds, but that requirement is no longer in affect.
State Sen. Phil Pavlov sponsored the bill which was approved with bipartisan support.
Michigan is the latest state to give adult motorcyclists the right to choose whether they want to 'Easy Rider' it like Billy or wear a helmet.
also are required to carry additional medical insurance if they decide not to wear a helmet, as are motorcycle passengers 21 or older who choose to do the same. Michigan is the 28th state to implement a partial law, while Iowa, Illinois and New Hampshire have no helmet laws at all.
In a press release issued by the governor’s office, Snyder said, “While many motorcyclists will continue to wear helmets, those who choose not to deserve the latitude to make their own informed judgments as long as they meet the requirements of this new law.”
"There is no substitute for proper training, education and awareness when it comes to operating any motor vehicle. We must continue working together to keep our roads safe by making sure that everyone who gets behind the wheel of a car or on a motorcycle has the proper skills. Traffic safety is a responsibility shared by all motorists,” he added.
The bill overturns a 45-year-old law. Michigan began enforcing the helmet law in 1967 to comply with U.S. Department of Transportation requirements. If they didn’t comply, the state wouldn’t have been eligible for federal funds, but that requirement is no longer in affect.
State Sen. Phil Pavlov sponsored the bill which was approved with bipartisan support.