In South Carolina, cyclists are not legally required to wear helmets, but there are other regulations in place. Those under 21 must don a helmet when riding lower-horsepower bikes, but not bicycles. The state is making an effort to incorporate bicycle lanes into newly built highways, which is a great step towards reducing obesity rates. The law states that cyclists must ride as close as possible to the right side of the road and may ride on the shoulder if they choose.
Supporters of South Carolina's motorcycle helmet laws point out that helmets can reduce motorcycle theft, since thieves may not think about wearing a helmet when stealing a bicycle. According to Amy Johnson, director of the Palmetto Cycling Coalition, many South Carolina cyclists understand the risks associated with cycling, but still want to reap the environmental and health benefits. South Carolina ranks last in terms of spending initiatives for bicycle safety infrastructure, which is why it has one of the highest rates of pedestrian and cyclist deaths in the US. It is essential to raise public awareness of the need to wear a DOT-approved helmet while riding a bicycle.
A board-certified trial lawyer with nearly 30 years of litigation experience serves on the Board of Governors of the American Association for Justice and was president of the South Carolina Justice Association. It is important for both bicyclists and car drivers in South Carolina to be aware of bicycle safety laws and regulations. According to a fact sheet from the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS), there is no helmet law in the state. It is especially important for cyclists to be aware of bicycle safety after an accident (also known as a “bicycle crash”).
In addition to wearing a DOT-approved helmet, cyclists should also be aware of their rights and responsibilities when it comes to bicycle safety. Cyclists should always obey traffic laws, use hand signals when turning or stopping, and be aware of their surroundings at all times. In conclusion, it is important for cyclists in South Carolina to be aware of their rights and responsibilities when it comes to bicycle safety. Wearing a DOT-approved helmet is essential for protecting yourself from serious injury or death in the event of an accident. Additionally, cyclists should always obey traffic laws, use hand signals when turning or stopping, and be aware of their surroundings at all times.
