Motorcycle helmet laws are different for each state. These laws are in place to protect motorcycle riders from severe injuries since they are less protected than people who use cars as a means of transportation.
Currently, 19 states and the District of Columbia have laws requiring all motorcyclists to wear a helmet, known as universal helmet laws. Laws requiring only some motorcyclists to wear a helmet are in place in 28 states. There is no motorcycle helmet use law in three states (Illinois, Iowa, and New Hampshire).