Electric scooters are a great way to move around the city. They are simple to use and good for the environment. I remember my first ride to work—it was quick, easy, and much better than being stuck in traffic. More people are using scooters now, which helps keep roads less crowded. But staying safe is key, and the most important rule is to wear a helmet. Even if it’s not the law, a helmet keeps you safe from serious head injuries.
Some scooters go as fast as 40 miles per hour (64 kilometers per hour). I once rode a fast one, and I couldn’t believe how quickly it sped up. But I also saw how risky it could be. Rough roads and high speeds make accidents more likely. A helmet can keep you safe. Even at slower speeds, like 20 miles per hour (32 kilometers per hour), a fall can still hurt. Helmets protect your head and brain, so I always remind my friends to wear one. No matter how short the ride, safety comes first. Picking the right helmet is also important. A helmet with a visor helps block wind, sun, and dust, making the ride safer and more comfortable. These simple steps make sure every ride is fun and safe.
Understanding Helmet Types for Electric Scooters
Electric scooter riders have different helmet options, each offering safety in different ways.
Bicycle Helmet: Simple and Light for Slow Rides
If you ride your scooter under 20 mph (32 km/h), a bicycle helmet is a good pick. When I first started riding, I used one for short trips. It felt light and airy. These helmets have a hard shell to spread impact and soft foam inside to absorb shock. In the U.S., they must meet CPSC standards, and in Europe, they follow EN1078 rules.
Bicycle helmets have air vents to keep you cool. Road bike helmets are light but don’t have visors, while mountain bike helmets give extra coverage at the back. Some even have chin bars for extra protection. I once hit a bump on a trail and wished I had a better helmet! Keep in mind that bike helmets can only handle one big crash—if you fall, you must replace them. They are great for casual rides, but they don’t protect your face or jaw.
BMX Helmet: Stronger Protection for Bumpy Roads
If you ride on rough roads, a BMX helmet is a better option than a bicycle helmet. These helmets look like skateboard helmets but have fewer air vents to improve impact protection. You can pick between open-face helmets, which leave your face open, or full-face helmets, which include a chin bar. After a fall on a rough road, I switched to a BMX helmet, and it made me feel much safer.
BMX helmets that meet ASTM F1952 (downhill biking) or ASTM F2032 (BMX) standards offer stronger protection. Full-face BMX helmets protect your face and jaw, while open-face BMX helmets work for easy rides. A snug fit is key—if a helmet is loose, it won’t protect you properly. Some models even have MIPS technology, which helps reduce twisting impacts. If you ride up to 20 mph (32 km/h) and want better safety than a bike helmet offers, a BMX helmet is a smart choice, especially on rough paths.
Motorcycle Helmet: Best for High-Speed Rides
For fast scooter rides, a motorcycle helmet is the safest choice. These helmets have multiple layers, including a hard shell, an EPS liner to absorb shock, and thick padding for comfort. They also have chin straps to keep them secure. Unlike bike helmets, motorcycle helmets go through strict safety testing, with certifications like DOT (U.S.), ECE (Europe), and Snell. The ECE 22.06 standard is one of the toughest.
Most motorcycle helmets are full-face, covering your head, face, and chin. I once took a long ride on a fast scooter, and my full-face motorcycle helmet saved me—it blocked wind, dust, and even bugs! Though they weigh more than bike helmets, modern versions have good air vents. Modular helmets are also handy—they let you flip up the chin bar, so you get both full-face and open-face options. If you ride over 20 mph (32 km/h) or travel in traffic, a motorcycle helmet gives the best protection. It also shields against wind, debris, and rain, making it perfect for long trips. Some riders find them heavy for short rides, but they offer the best safety.
Full-Face Helmet: Full Coverage for Any Ride
A full-face helmet offers top protection, covering your head, face, and jaw, which are at high risk in accidents. The chin bar adds extra safety, lowering the chance of serious face injuries. If you ride off-road or in areas with branches and gravel, a full-face helmet is a must. I once rode through a dirt path and was glad my visor blocked a branch! Downhill bikers and off-road riders love full-face helmets because they protect the whole head.
Beyond impact protection, full-face helmets block wind, dust, and rain, making your ride more comfortable. Many helmets also come with visors to protect your eyes from glare and flying dirt. If you ride fast or in traffic, a full-face helmet is the best choice. While motorcycle-style helmets offer the most protection, many scooter riders prefer lighter motocross or downhill bike helmets, which have better air circulation while still covering the face. If you want maximum safety, a full-face helmet is your best bet.
Why are helmets so important?
Wearing a helmet when riding an electric scooter is very important. It is the best way to keep your head safe. A helmet acts like a shield, softening the impact if you fall or crash. It protects your skull and brain, helping to prevent serious injuries. Head injuries are a big risk in scooter accidents. They can cause brain damage, disabilities, or even death. I know someone who fell without a helmet. He got a concussion and had to rest for weeks. A helmet could have saved him from that.
Studies show that helmets lower the risk of head injuries by 51% for cyclists, and the same is true for scooter riders. Some people think riding slowly is safe, but even a small fall can cause serious harm. I once turned too fast on a wet road and slipped. Luckily, my helmet hit the ground instead of my head.
Many scooter riders don’t wear helmets, and that’s a big problem. A study in Los Angeles found that only 4.4% of injured riders had a helmet on, but 40.2% had head injuries. Most accidents involve head trauma, and most riders were not wearing helmets. Helmets also protect your face, which can easily get hurt in a crash. Another great reason to wear a helmet is that it boosts confidence. It helps you stay safe and avoid accidents before they happen.
How to choose an electric scooter helmet
Wearing the right helmet for your electric scooter keeps you safe. Pick one based on your speed and where you ride. If you go fast, you need a stronger helmet. I first used a bicycle helmet but switched to a BMX helmet when I started riding faster. Where you ride also matters. If you ride in traffic, on rough roads, or at night, choose a helmet that covers more and absorbs impact well.
A helmet should fit snugly—not too tight or loose. It must stay in place when you move. Always get a certified helmet. In Europe, look for EN 1078. In the U.S., choose one with CPSC approval.
Different helmets offer different protection. Bicycle helmets work for slow speeds. If you ride faster or on bumpy roads, pick a BMX, downhill, or full-face helmet. Motorcycle helmets give the most protection. One time, I wore a helmet with bad airflow in hot weather—it was terrible! Now, I always pick one that lets air in to stay cool.
Other features help, too. Visors block the sun, wind, and dust. Light helmets feel better for long rides. If you ride at night, get one with lights or reflective strips to be seen better. Since no specific scooter helmet exists, most riders use cycling, skateboarding, or motorcycle helmets. The right helmet makes riding safe and comfortable!
What level of protection do you need?
The right helmet keeps you safe when riding an electric scooter. The best one for you depends on how fast you go and where you ride. Riding at night or in bad weather makes accidents more likely. One time, I rode in heavy rain and could barely see. That’s when I learned how useful a helmet with a visor is. If you ride fast, on bumpy roads, or in traffic, pick a strong helmet that covers more of your head.
If you go under 20 mph (32 km/h) in safe places, a bike helmet is okay. But if you want better protection, a BMX or downhill helmet is a great choice. These helmets handle harder hits than regular bike helmets. I once fell on gravel while wearing a basic bike helmet. It helped, but after that, I got a BMX helmet for extra safety. A full-face helmet is even better because it protects your chin and jaw.
If you ride over 20 mph (32 km/h) or in risky areas, you need a tough helmet. Helmets with Dutch NTA-8776 certification or motorcycle helmets with Snell M-2005, Snell M-2010, or DOT FMVSS-218 ratings offer the most protection. They can handle big crashes and cover more of your head. No matter what, a full-face helmet is the safest choice because it protects your whole face, including your chin and jaw.
| Riding Speed | Risk Level | Recommended Helmet Type(s) | Key Safety Standards |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 20 mph (32 km/h) | Low | Bicycle Helmet | CPSC (US), EN 1078 (Europe), Snell B90A/B95 |
| Below 20 mph (32 km/h) | Moderate | BMX Helmet, Downhill Helmet | ASTM F1952, ASTM F2032 |
| Above 20 mph (32 km/h) | Moderate to High | E-bike Helmet | Dutch NTA-8776 |
| Above 20 mph (32 km/h) | High | Motorcycle Helmet (Full-Face Recommended) | DOT FMVSS-218, Snell M-2005/M-2010/M-2015, ECE 22.06 |
Measure your head size
Measuring your head is the first step to getting a helmet that fits right and keeps you safe. Use a soft measuring tape or a piece of string. Wrap it around your head at the widest part—about an inch (or 0.5 cm) above your eyebrows and just over your ears. Make sure it stays straight all the way around. The first time I tried, I used a mirror, but it was tricky. When a friend helped, it was much easier. It’s best to measure a few times to be sure.
Once you have your size, check the brand’s helmet chart. Helmet sizes can be different for each brand and even for different models. Most charts use centimeters, so if you measured in inches, convert it. Your head shape also matters. Even if the size matches, the helmet may not feel right. I once ordered a helmet that should have fit, but it was too tight on my temples. That’s why it’s always better to try one on before buying. A good helmet should fit snugly but not be too tight. It also shouldn’t move when you shake your head.
Things to look for when buying a helmet
Picking the right helmet for your electric scooter is key to staying safe and comfy. The fit is the most important thing. Your helmet should sit snugly on your head, covering your forehead and sitting low at the back. It shouldn’t move when you shake your head. I once got a helmet that seemed fine at first, but after a long ride, I realized it was too loose. Now, I always check the fit before buying.
Make sure your helmet meets safety standards like EN 1078, CPSC, DOT, ECE, Snell, ASTM, or NTA-8776. For extra safety, look for MIPS technology. Ventilation matters too. A well-ventilated helmet keeps you cool and helps prevent fogging.
To stay visible, pick a helmet with reflective strips or built-in LED lights. This helps a lot at night. I once rode home in the dark, and my reflective helmet made it easier for drivers to see me. Helmet weight is important too. A lighter helmet feels better, especially on long rides.
A visor is super useful. It blocks sun, wind, and dust. I’ve had bugs hit my face while riding, and a visor would have helped! Look for one with an anti-fog coating and an easy-to-use design. Also, make sure the chin strap and retention system are secure and comfy.
The helmet’s material affects how strong and safe it is. A well-made helmet lasts longer and protects better. Safety comes first, but picking a design you like means you’ll wear it more. Lastly, choose a helmet that suits your riding style, speed, and usual conditions. The right helmet makes every ride safer and more enjoyable..
Electric Scooter Helmets Standards
There is no special safety rule for electric scooter helmets in the U.S. Because of this, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) suggests using a bicycle helmet that meets its safety standard. In Europe, both bicycle and e-scooter helmets must meet the EN1078 safety rule. When I first got my e-scooter, I didn’t check for helmet safety labels. Later, I learned how important it is to choose one that follows a trusted standard.
In the U.S., there are extra safety rules for bike helmets. The Snell Memorial Foundation has two: Snell B90A and the tougher Snell B95. If you ride fast, like downhill biking, ASTM F1952 sets higher safety levels. It even tests the chin bar on full-face helmets. The ASTM F2032 standard is for BMX helmets, which protect more than regular bike helmets. I once borrowed a BMX helmet for a fast ride and instantly felt safer than in my usual helmet.
The Dutch NTA-8776 standard is stricter than bicycle or BMX helmet rules, making it a great choice for fast e-scooters. For the best protection, motorcycle helmets are an option. The U.S. DOT FMVSS-218 standard is the minimum for motorcycles, but Snell M-2005, M-2010, and M-2015 helmets offer even better safety. Another trusted rule is the ECE 22.06, used worldwide. From my experience, buying a helmet from a well-known brand with a proper safety label is the smartest choice. A good helmet can make a big difference in an accident.
Electric Scooter Helmet Law in The USA
Electric scooter helmet laws in the USA vary significantly by state, and even by city or county within a state. There is no single federal law governing e-scooter helmet use. Here’s a breakdown of the complexities and key things to consider:
1. State Laws:Highly Variable:
Helmet rules change depending on where you ride. Some states have strict laws, others have none, and many fall in between. I found this out when riding my e-scooter in different cities—one had no rules, while another required helmets for everyone!
Common Regulations (Where They Exist):
Age Restrictions: Most places require helmets for riders under 16, 17, or 18. Some states require helmets for all riders, but that’s not common.
Scooter Speed: Some states base helmet rules on speed. If a scooter can go over 20 mph, a helmet might be required—even if you ride slower. I once rented a scooter in a city with this rule and only found out when a local officer told me!
Location of Use: Helmet rules may change based on where you ride—public roads, bike paths, or private property.
Examples of State Variations (Laws change, so always check local rules!)
- California: Helmets required for riders under 18. Speed and location rules apply.
- Florida: Riders under 16 must wear a helmet.
- New York: State allows e-scooters, but cities set their own rules. NYC laws vary by borough. Helmets are recommended but not always required for adults.
- Texas: No state helmet law, but cities like Austin and San Antonio require helmets for younger riders.
- Washington (State): No state law, but Seattle requires helmets for all riders. Always check local rules!
- Oregon: No state rule, but cities like Portland may have their own laws.
- Illinois: No statewide law, but Chicago has age-based helmet rules.
- Massachusetts: Riders under 16 must wear helmets.
- New Jersey: Riders under 17 must wear helmets.
Local Ordinances (City/County):
Why They Matter: Even if a state has no helmet law, a city might. I once assumed state rules applied everywhere—only to find out the city had stricter laws!
How to Find Local Laws:
- City/County Website: Search for “electric scooter,” “micromobility,” or “traffic laws.”
- City Clerk’s Office: They can confirm local rules.
- Local Police (Non-Emergency Line): Officers can share traffic law details.
- Scooter Rental Companies: They provide local rules, but it’s best to check for yourself.
Scooter Rental Company Policies:
Separate from the Law: Even if no law requires helmets, rental companies (like Lime, Bird, Spin) might. Some provide helmets, while others expect you to bring your own. Always check the rental agreement. I once picked up a scooter and realized too late that a helmet was required—luckily, I had one with me!
Conclusion: Ride Safe, Ride Smart, Ride with a Helmet
Wearing a helmet while riding an electric scooter is the best way to stay safe. Helmets protect against serious head injuries, which are a big risk when riding. I learned this when I fell off my scooter. Thankfully, my helmet kept me from getting hurt.
Choosing the right helmet matters. It should match your speed and the roads you ride on. A good helmet fits well and meets safety standards. When I bought my first helmet, I didn’t check the fit. It felt uncomfortable on long rides. Now, I always make sure my helmet fits snugly.
There may not be special helmet laws for electric scooters in USA, but the country does focus on head safety for motorcycles and e-bikes. This proves that safety should always come first. No matter the law, wearing a helmet is the smartest way to enjoy a safe ride.
