Bicyclists and Pedestrians
GHSA does not track state pedestrian safety laws but does track bicycle helmet laws in states where they have been enacted. Few states have enacted bicycle helmet laws. While GHSA only tracks state laws, many localities require helmet use for some or all bicyclists.
- 21 states, the District of Columbia and the Northern Mariana Islands have a helmet law for bicyclists below a certain age, generally about 16.
- Only the Virgin Islands and Guam require helmets for all bicyclists.
- The remaining (unlisted) 29 states and Puerto Rico have no bicycle helmet law.
Sources: Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and State Highway Safety Offices (SHSOs).
Laws last reviewed by SHSOs in March 2024.
Bicycle helmets required for all riders under 18.
Bicycle helmets required for all riders under 15.
Bicycle helmets required for all riders.
Bicycle helmets required for all riders under 16.
Bicycle helmets required for all riders under 16.
Bicycle helmets required for all riders under 12.
Bicycle helmets required for all riders under 16.
Bicycle helmets required for all riders under 18.
Bicycle helmets required for all riders under 16.
Bicycle helmets required for all riders 1 year or older and under 14. Children under 1 prohibited.
Bicycle helmets required for all riders under 17.
Bicycle helmets required for all riders under 16.
Bicycle helmets required for all riders under 17.
Bicycle helmets required for all riders under 16.
Bicycle helmets required for all riders under 16. $25 fine for a second or subsequent violation.
Bicycle helmets required for all riders under 12.
Bicycle helmets required for all riders under 16.
Bicycle helmets required for all riders.
Bicycle helmets required for all riders under 16.
Bicycle helmets required for all riders under 16.
Bicycle helmets required for all riders under 16.
Bicycle helmets required for all riders under 18.
Bicycle helmets required for all riders under 16.
Bicycle helmets required for all riders under 18.
Bicycle helmets required for all riders under 16.
Nighttime Traffic Deaths Are on the Rise
From 2010 to 2017, pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities occurring after dark increased by 46% nationally. Trenda McPherson of the Florida State Safety Office addresses the factors causing many of these crashes.
Nighttime Traffic Deaths Are on the Rise
Story by Mike Maciag
January 9, 2019
Pedestrian deaths rise in 2018
A number of factors may be contributing to high numbers of pedestrian deaths in communities nationwide. GHSA's Kara Macek discusses, pointing out that while vehicles have gotten safer, pedestrians remain as vulnerable as ever.
Pedestrian deaths rise in 2018
Story by Rich Griset
January 2, 2019
New Mexico pedestrian deaths spike to 82
As states continue to struggle with ensuring pedestrian safety, New Mexico saw a spike in pedestrian fatalities in 2018. Governor's Representative for Highway Safety Franklin Garcia speaks to this challenge.
New Mexico pedestrian deaths spike to 82
Story by Matthew Reisen
December 30, 2018
‘It is alarming.’ A record number of pedestrians are dying in Lexington.
A spike in fatal pedestrian crashes in Lexington, Kentucky has sparked concern. GHSA's Kara Macek speaks to factors that have led to high numbers of pedestrian deaths nationally.
‘It is alarming.’ A record number of pedestrians are dying in Lexington.
Story by Mike Stunson, Greg Kocher and Beth Musgrave
November 16, 2018
Getting to and from a bus stop may be more dangerous than the actual ride to school. Here's why
A recent series of crashes at school bus stops serves as a reminder of the need to improve pedestrian safety. GHSA Executive Director Jonathan Adkins discusses challenges and solutions to pedestrian safety.
At least 12 pedestrians died after being struck on N.J. roads last month
Following a spike in New Jersey pedestrian fatalities, GHSA's Pam Fischer discusses why fall can be a particularly dangerous time on the road for pedestrians.
At least 12 pedestrians died after being struck on N.J. roads last month
Story by Anthony G. Attrino
October 2, 2018
Better headlights needed to improve pedestrian safety after spike in deaths, NTSB says
As the National Transportation Safety Board released new recommendations to enhance pedestrian safety, this article references GHSA's statement of support for the recommendations and comprehensive, localized solutions to the issue.
Better headlights needed to improve pedestrian safety after spike in deaths, NTSB says
Article by Nathan Bomey
September 25, 2018
Pedestrian Deaths in U.S. Surged 46% Over Last Decade
The National Transportation Safety Board recently held a meeting investigating pedestrian fatalities and recommending a collaborative approach to the issue. GHSA's Russ Martin comments on NTSB's findings and voices support for comprehensive solutions.
Pedestrian Deaths in U.S. Surged 46% Over Last Decade
Article by Benjamin Din
September 25, 2018
GHSA Supports NTSB’s Call for Comprehensive, Localized Solutions to Prevent Pedestrian Fatalities
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 25, 2018
CONTACT: Kara Macek; 202-789-0942 x140
Statement by GHSA Executive Director Jonathan Adkins
WASHINGTON, D.C. – As the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) meets to consider recommendations to enhance pedestrian safety, the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) thanks the Board for supporting a collaborative and locally-focused approach to the issue.