The regulations regarding helmet and jacket requirements for motorcyclists in the United States vary from state to state. The federal government does not mandate helmet use for adult motorcycle riders, but it does encourage states to have helmet laws and promote helmet use.
These states are: Alabama, California, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington.
Partial helmet laws: Some states have partial helmet laws that require only certain groups of riders, such as those under a certain age or with a specific amount of riding experience, to wear helmets. The specific requirements and age limits vary by state. For example, Florida and Pennsylvania have helmet laws that only apply to riders under a certain age.
No helmet laws: The remaining states do not have any laws mandating helmet use for adult riders.
Regarding jackets, there are no specific nationwide laws requiring motorcyclists to wear jackets. However, wearing protective gear, including jackets, is strongly recommended by safety experts to reduce the risk of injuries in the event of a crash. Many motorcyclists choose to wear jackets made of durable materials like leather or specialized textiles that offer abrasion resistance and additional protection.
It's important to note that laws can change over time, and there may be updates or revisions to helmet and jacket requirements in different states. To ensure accurate and up-to-date information, it is advisable to consult the relevant state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or transportation authority for the most current regulations in the specific state you are interested in.