News Release: HAMILTON, Bermuda – The Bermuda Road Safety Council (BRSC) is reminding the motoring public to follow all rules of the road, specifically the use of helmets while riding on our streets.
Whether a person is riding a motorcycle, auxiliary cycle, or pedal cycle, they must wear a helmet or protective headgear while riding on public roads. This requirement is not only for the driver but also for passengers.
According to the Motorcycles and Auxiliary Bicycles (Special Measures of Control) Act 1953 – section 6 – “Protective headgear must be worn”, and the Auxiliary Bicycles Act 1954 both state (1) every person driving or riding on a motorcycle on any highway shall wear protective headgear. (2) any person who drives or rides on a motorcycle in contravention of subsection (1) or who drives a motorcycle on a highway when any passenger riding thereon does not wear protective headgear as required by that subsection commits an offence.
In recent months, electric scooters have become popular among the public. While using electric scooters we ask that riders remember that they must wear helmets when using them, as required under legislation. We also remind the public that all users must be 16 years and older to ride electric scooters and that any person riding under age is committing an offence against the law.
The importance of using a helmet correctly cannot be understated. Helmets are worn to protect the user from head injuries if a collision occurs. Helmets are to be worn, fitted and securely strapped on the user’s head to cushion the impact on a person’s head. Helmets should also be changed every five years according to industry standards.
We implore the public to adhere to all rules of the road, whether riding a bike or driving a car. Drive with care and caution, don’t drink and drive and slow down Bermuda.
