In 2020, Missouri modified its motorcycle helmet laws, allowing riders aged 26 and older to ride without helmets if they have health insurance. This change aimed to balance personal freedom with public safety. However, subsequent data has raised concerns about the impact on rider safety.
Current Helmet Requirements in Missouri
As of 2025, Missouri’s helmet laws stipulate:
- Riders Under 26: Must wear a helmet at all times when operating or riding as a passenger on a motorcycle.
- Riders 26 and Older: May ride without a helmet if they have health insurance or another form of medical benefits insurance that covers injuries incurred while operating or riding on a motorcycle.
Impact on Motorcycle Fatalities
Following the 2020 law change, Missouri experienced a significant increase in motorcycle fatalities. In 2023, the state recorded 174 motorcycle deaths, a 47% rise from previous years. Notably, only 44% of these fatalities involved riders wearing helmets.
Safety Considerations
Experts emphasize the importance of helmet use in reducing fatalities and injuries. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reports that helmets reduce the risk of fatality in motorcycle crashes by 37%.
Legal Implications
Riders choosing to ride without a helmet may face legal challenges in the event of an accident. Missouri’s comparative negligence laws allow insurance companies to argue that not wearing a helmet contributed to the severity of injuries, potentially affecting compensation claims.
Conclusion
While Missouri’s helmet law change reflects a shift toward personal choice, the rise in fatalities underscores the critical role helmets play in rider safety. Riders are encouraged to consider the benefits of helmet use, not only for personal protection but also to support broader public health and safety efforts.
