Arizona motorcycle helmet laws

What Are Arizona's Helmet Laws and How Do They Affect a Motorcycle Injury Claim?

Yes, Arizona’s helmet laws can impact your motorcycle injury claim. While riders 18 and older aren’t legally required to wear helmets, not wearing one can reduce your compensation if you sustain head injuries. Arizona’s pure comparative negligence law means your damages are reduced by your percentage of fault. Contact Hirsch Talcott at 602-903-6000 for a free consultation.
Get Your Free Case Review
Personal Injury Lawyer
Certified Specialist By State Bar of Arizona
Understand Arizona’s motorcycle helmet laws and how they impact injury claims. Learn how helmet use affects compensation and your legal rights.

In Arizona, motorcyclists aged 18 and over are not legally required to wear helmets, as per Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-964. However, this choice can significantly impact the outcome of a motorcycle injury claim, especially if head injuries are involved.

Recent Case in Phoenix

In May 2026, a man riding an e-bike without a helmet ran a red light and collided with a car in Gilbert, Arizona, suffering serious injuries. This incident underscores the potential consequences of not wearing a helmet, even when it’s not legally mandated. Read more.

Arizona Law and Your Rights

Arizona follows a pure comparative negligence system, as outlined in A.R.S. § 12-2505. This means that if you’re found partially at fault for your injuries, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. For instance, if not wearing a helmet is deemed to have contributed 20% to your head injuries, your total compensation would be reduced by that amount.

Statute of Limitations

It’s crucial to act promptly after a motorcycle accident. Arizona law, under A.R.S. § 12-542, imposes a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. Failing to file within this period can result in losing your right to seek compensation.

What To Do Next

If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in Arizona, it’s essential to understand how helmet use and state laws affect your claim. Consulting with experienced personal injury attorneys can provide clarity and direction. Attorney Jack Hirsch, a Certified Specialist in Personal Injury and Wrongful Death, and Attorney Chelsie Talcott, a former Maricopa County Deputy Public Defender, have the expertise to guide you through this process.

At Hirsch Talcott, we operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no fees unless we win your case. Learn more about our fee structure.

Understanding Arizona’s helmet laws and their implications is vital for any motorcyclist. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact Hirsch Talcott at 602-903-6000 for a free consultation. Our team is dedicated to helping you navigate the complexities of your claim and securing the compensation you deserve.