Lawmakers Mulling Moped Helmet Law

HONOLULU - State lawmakers on Saturday gave first-round approval to a bill that would require all moped riders to wear helmets. Current law requires helmets only for moped riders under age 18.

But many moped users say they hate the idea, calling helmets unnecessary.

Architecture student Andy Lau said his moped is an inexpensive way to travel from home in Kalihi to his classes at UH Manoa.

“I don’t think moped riders should be required to wear a helmet,” he said. “I don’t think it’s that necessary. We don’t really ride on the freeway. Most of the time, the fastest I am going is 30 miles per hour.”

Even motorcyclists were at the Legislature Saturday to protest a proposal to make helmets mandatory for all moped riders.

“We should not be placing further governmental regulations on a means of transportation that reduces congestion on our already taxed roadways, reduces pollution and saves our natural resources,” said Brian Grayling of Street Bikers United.

But government health and transportation agencies want moped riders to better protect themselves.

“The department strongly supports this bill. The legislation would reduce injuries and fatalities on our roadways because a safety helmet saves lives,” said Jiro Sumada, state transportation deputy director.

The proposed law would slap fines of up to $500 on moped users without helmets.

It’s difficult to say if a mandatory helmet requirement for mopeds like this will make it through the full Legislature. Generally, lawmakers in the past have only been inclined to pass helmet restrictions for young people.

Motorcycle drivers are regulated the same as moped users. All motorcycle and moped riders under 18 must wear helmets. State law also says that all bicycle riders under age 16 are required to wear helmets.

SOURCE: MSNBC