Mich. bill exempts helmets for off-road vehicles

2/18/2014
ASSOCIATED PRESS

LANSING — The Michigan House has voted to let off-road recreation vehicle drivers go without a crash helmet and protective glasses on their own private property.

The proposed exemption approved 99-9 today is similar to one that exempts helmet requirements for snowmobile operators on their land.

Michigan generally requires off-road vehicle operators to wear helmets. The legislation would exempt property owners, family members and invited guests from the requirement while riding on the property owner’s land.

Republican Rep. Bruce Rendon of Lake City says it’s “common sense” to treat snowmobilers and off-road vehicle operators the same.

Michigan already exempts helmet use for people operating a vehicle with a roof that meets crash helmet standards if they are wearing seatbelts.

The bill now goes to the Senate.