Is wearing a helmet mandatory when cycling? This is one of the most frequently asked questions by cyclists, whether they are daily commuters, weekend sports enthusiasts, or families out for a ride. In France, due to road safety recommendations and other factors, helmet use is subject to certain regulations, particularly for electric bikes .
In this article, you will find out whether wearing a helmet is really mandatory when cycling, as well as the specific situations in which it is strictly required, in order to better understand the legislation and ride safely.
Should children wear helmets when riding a bike?
Yes, children must wear a bicycle helmet . Since the implementation of the law of March 22, 2017, wearing an approved helmet is mandatory for all children under 12 years old. This measure aims to protect the youngest, whose heads are particularly vulnerable in the event of a fall.
Whether the child is riding their own bike or as a passenger, this requirement applies in all cases. It is the responsibility of the adult accompanying or transporting the child to ensure compliance with this rule.
What are the penalties for failure to comply with this obligation?
Any adult responsible for a child under 12 years of age who is not wearing a helmet is liable to a fixed fine of the fourth class. The amount of this fine is set at 135 euros , but can be reduced in the event of prompt payment. The objective of this measure is not to punish, but to establish a systematic framework of protection for young children.
Are bicycle helmets mandatory for adults?
Highly recommended, but not mandatory
For cyclists aged 12 and over, French law does not require them to wear a helmet when riding a bicycle or conventional electric bicycle. This is therefore a recommendation and not a legal obligation.
However, all road safety campaigns and cycling associations emphasize the importance of wearing a helmet. Accident statistics show that wearing a helmet can halve the risk of serious head injuries, which remain the leading cause of death among cyclists.
This is why LANKELEISI brand professionals strongly recommend wearing a helmet when cycling, as it provides essential protection against head injuries.
Beware of the consequences in the event of an accident
It's important to understand an often overlooked point: not wearing a helmet can impact your compensation in the event of an accident. If you're involved in an accident through no fault of your own, not wearing a helmet could be considered negligence by insurance companies or a court, which could increase the likelihood of your personal injuries being recognized.
Therefore, riding without a helmet not only puts your health at risk, but can also lead to legal and financial consequences.
Is it illegal to ride a bike without a helmet?
Classic electric bike
A conventional electric bicycle motor stops working above 25 km/h, which legally classifies it as a "bicycle." Therefore, the rules apply exactly the same as for a non-electric bicycle.
Therefore, it is not illegal for an adult to ride an e-bike without a helmet. However, wearing a helmet is strongly recommended, as the average speed is generally higher and the distances traveled longer, which mathematically increases the level of risk exposure.
Fast electric bike
An electric bike that can reach a speed of 45 km/h, often referred to as a "fast bike" or "VAE 45", is no longer legally considered a bicycle. It belongs to the category of electric motorcycles .
This classification has important consequences:
- Wearing an approved helmet for light motorcycles (ECE 22.05 standard or higher) is strictly mandatory for the driver.
- The vehicle must be registered and insured.
- Cycling on cycle paths is prohibited.
So, riding a fast electric bike without a helmet is illegal and punishable by a fine.
What are the benefits of wearing a helmet?
Proven safety: significant reduction in the risk of head injuries
The main advantage of a helmet is its protective function. In the event of a fall or collision, the helmet acts as a protective shell, absorbing and dispersing the impact energy.
Its expanded polystyrene structure is designed to compress and crack, dissipating force that would otherwise be transmitted directly to the skull.
Studies show that wearing a helmet reduces the risk of head injuries by 60% and the risk of serious facial injuries by 20%.
Other benefits: visibility, protection and confidence
Beyond protection during an impact, helmets offer other benefits. A brightly colored helmet or one equipped with integrated LED lighting allows you to be more visible to other road users, day and night.
It also effectively protects against the sun, rain, low-hanging branches, and even flying insects. Finally, knowing your head is protected gives you peace of mind and confidence, making your cycling experience more enjoyable and safer.
How to choose a suitable bicycle helmet?
Safety standards to check
A helmet only offers effective protection if it is certified. We recommend choosing a LANKELEISI bicycle helmet .
For a traditional bike or an electric bike limited to 25 km/h, make sure the helmet bears the CE marking and complies with the NF EN 1078 standard. This standard guarantees that the helmet has passed a series of resistance and shock absorption tests.
For fast bikes, the standard to check is ECE 22.05.
Finding the right size and ensuring a comfortable fit
A helmet that is too big or too small is ineffective. To determine the correct size, measure your head circumference with a tape measure, passing it across the middle of your forehead and above your ears.
Once the helmet is on, it should not compress or move on your head. Tighten the adjustment dial until the helmet is secure yet comfortable.
The straps should form a "Y" shape under the ears, and the space between the chin strap and the chin should not exceed the width of two fingers.
When should you replace your helmet?
A helmet should be replaced as soon as it suffers an impact, even a minor one. Even if there is no visible damage, its internal structure may be compromised, reducing its protective capacity.
Without shock, it is recommended to replace your helmet every 3 to 5 years. Over time, helmet materials degrade due to UV rays, perspiration, and temperature fluctuations, which reduces its absorption efficiency.
What are the four pieces of equipment required for cycling?
The helmet isn't the only regulated safety device. To ride legally, your bike must be equipped with:
- Two effective brakes , one at the front and one at the rear.
- An audible warning device whose signal must be audible at least 50 meters away.
- Lighting and reflective devices: a yellow or white front light and a red rear light (mandatory at night), orange reflectors on the wheels and pedals, a white reflector at the front and a red one at the rear.
- An approved high-visibility vest, which the cyclist and their passengers must wear when riding outside built-up areas, at night or in reduced visibility.
Conclusion
You now have all the information you need to understand the legal framework and safety issues related to wearing a helmet while cycling. Whether it's a legal requirement or simply a recommendation, a helmet remains your best ally on the road.
Rather than seeing it as a constraint, consider it as an essential piece of equipment, like efficient brakes on your bike. This way, you'll be able to fully enjoy your rides with complete peace of mind.
FAQ
What is the date of the law that made helmets mandatory for children?
The measure was incorporated into the Highway Code and became effective on March 22, 2017, following a decision by the Interministerial Committee for Road Safety.
Can I wear a ski helmet while cycling?
This is not recommended. Each sport exposes you to different types of falls and impacts. A ski helmet (EN 1077 standard) is designed to withstand multiple impacts and resist cold, while a bicycle helmet (EN 1078 standard) is optimized for a single impact and maximum ventilation. These two helmets are not interchangeable due to their specific designs.
Is wearing a helmet mandatory for electric scooters?
It is recommended that you wear a helmet when using an electric scooter outside of dense urban areas. In urban areas, wearing a helmet is strongly recommended, but not mandatory.
Is it safe to buy a used bicycle helmet?
Absolutely not. This is a major risk that should never be taken. You cannot know the helmet's history. It may have suffered invisible impacts that damaged its internal structure, ultimately rendering it ineffective. A helmet is personal protective equipment and should always be purchased new.
