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Random Question: Have you ever been pulled over for a helmet check?

2.7K views 4 replies 5 participants last post by  zarzuelabelisium  
#1 ·
Hi All

I just have a, random, out of left field question for you all, have any of you ever been pulled over for a helmet check or have you been pulled over for something else and then the officer checked your helmet? I.e. to check if your helmet is DOT certified? Just overall curious how many riders this has happened to and how regular. I never have but did recently purchase a helmet that is ECE (Europe equivalent of DOT and is arguably better than DOT) and I'm not curious what the chances are that I'll ever be pulled over and fined for it not being DOT or it will be checked if I ever am pulled over.. Just for extra details: I'm not a street hooligan (no running lights, no wheelies, and usually stay within 5-10 miles of the speed limit).
 
#3 ·
You couldn't legally by stopped in the US for a helmet check without some other circumstances being present. In order to initiate a traffic stop, the police need at a minimum reasonable suspicion that an offense has occurred/is occurring/or is about to occur. If the police could tell before the stop that your helmet wasn’t in compliance, that would be reason for a stop. However, I don’t know how an officer could tell your helmet wasn’t DOT certified by glancing at it as you pass. The police couldn’t randomly stop motorcyclists just to check their helmets.

Regarding an officer stopping you for something else and checking your helmet...he she would have a hard time proving beyond a reasonable doubt that the helmet wasn't in compliance. I’m not sure how they would check your helmet...all you have to say is no. They couldn’t legally search your helmet without probable cause and a search warrant.
 
#4 ·
First, you should read the helmet law for your state, see what is required and if you are violating any laws. My helmet is also ECE and DOT approved. The law may state either is acceptable. You can buy DOT stickers if it makes you feel better.
I’ve never had a cop pay any attention to my helmet at all, but I guess you could catch an enthusiastic rookie.