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The question of compulsory helmet use for cyclists in Germany concerns many cyclists and always causes discussions. Whether on a leisurely Sunday trip or on the daily commute to work – the bicycle helmet is an important issue when it comes to road safety. Your helmet protects you on every ride, in accidents, falls and impacts. But is there even a requirement to wear a helmet? How are the laws regulated in the various federal states and do children also have to wear a helmet? You can find the answers to these questions and other exciting facts and information in our article.
Temporal overview: Since when has it been compulsory to wear a helmet?
First, let's look together at the development of the bicycle helmet requirement.
To date, there is no general legal requirement for cyclists to wear helmets in Germany. However, the discussion about a possible introduction has been with us for decades. Already in the 1980sWhen bicycle helmets first gained wider attention, considerations of mandatory use arose.
Important milestones in the debate:
- Since 1976: Helmets are mandatory on motorcycles
- 1990s: The first campaigns for the voluntary use of a helmet are launched
- 2011: The then Transport Minister Peter Ramsauer spoke out in favor of compulsory helmet use, but met with widespread resistance
- 2013: The Schleswig-Holstein Higher Regional Court decides that cyclists can be partly to blame for accidents without a helmet
- 2014: The Federal Court of Justice contradicts this opinion and makes it clear that there is no obligation to wear a helmet
- 2019: Discussion about compulsory helmet use for e-bike riders arises
Despite recurring debates, the legislature has so far decided against a general helmet requirement. Instead it will be on Education and voluntary use set.
Current legal situation: Is it compulsory for cyclists to wear a helmet?
The short answer to the question “Is there a requirement to wear a helmet?” is: No, there is no general legal requirement for cyclists to wear a helmet in Germany. Neither the Road Traffic Act (StVO) nor other federal laws require wearing a helmet when cycling.
However, the principle of personal responsibility applies. Every road user is encouraged not to endanger themselves or others. Wearing a helmet is therefore strongly recommended, but is a voluntary decision. In any case, we advise you to protect yourself and others on the road.
Special features of the helmet requirement for e-bikes
When it comes to e-bikes, a distinction must be made between different types.
- Pedelecs (up to 20 km/h): Are legally considered bicycles, no helmet requirement
- S-Pedelecs (up to 45 km/h): Considered as mopeds, Helmets are required
- E-bikes with throttle grips: Depending on their top speed, they are considered mopeds or moped, both of which are subject to the helmet requirement
There is no special helmet requirement for the increasingly popular Pedelecs up to 20 km/h. However, wearing a helmet is particularly advisable due to the higher speeds.
In Germany, helmets are required for two-wheelers that travel faster than 20 km/h. Among the vehicles on which you are required by law to have one Must wear helmet, include:
- Speed Pedelecs
- Mopeds
- Motorcycles and scooters
- Mopeds
- Quads
Is it compulsory for children to wear helmets?
There is no special legal requirement for children to wear helmets in Germany. However, experts, road safety organizations and we at KED strongly recommend that Children should always wear a helmet when cycling. Many parents are already implementing this and setting a good example. In order to motivate the kids to wear a helmet, it is important that you as a parent also put on a helmet before you start cycling!
Some federal states have stipulated in their school regulations that Students must wear helmets on bike rides. However, this only applies to school events.
Regulations in the different federal states
Although there is no nationwide requirement, some federal states have made special regulations.
- Baden-Württemberg: Mandatory for students on bike trips
- Thuringia: Helmets are required for children up to 7 years old as passengers on bicycles
- Saxony-Anhalt: Recommendation for wearing helmets in the road traffic regulations
Driving without a helmet – punishment or not?
What legal consequences do you face if you ride a bike without a helmet?
Since there is no general obligation to wear a helmet, there are usually no direct legal consequences or penalties for riding a bike without a helmet. There are also no fines for driving without a helmet.
However, not wearing a helmet can have legal consequences for you in certain situations:
- At accidents it can become one Complicity discussion come
- Insurance could Cut benefits (this is controversial, case-by-case assessment is necessary)
- At gross negligence Not wearing a helmet could become relevant
Riding an e-bike without a helmet: punishment and possible consequences
When riding an e-bike without a helmet, as we have already briefly mentioned, a distinction must be made between the different types.
Since there is no helmet requirement for Pedelecs up to 20 km/h, there will be no penalty if you are caught without a helmet. However, helmets are mandatory for S-Pedelecs and faster e-bikes, which is why Violation is punishable by a fine can be. The amount varies depending on the federal state, but is usually between 15 and 25 euros.
Safety aspects: Why is wearing a suitable safety helmet important?
Now let's look at some statistics about bicycle accidents without a helmet. The numbers speak for themselves and should make everyone who rides without a helmet think twice.
- About 80% of serious head injuries occur in bicycle accidents could through one Helmet prevented or be mitigated
- Cyclist without a helmet have one two to three times higher risk for serious head injuries and other major damage
- At fatal bicycle accidents only carry about 8% of victims a helmet
These statistics underline the enormous importance of bicycle helmets for road safety.
How many people wear a helmet?
Last year in Germany, according to the Federal Highway Research Institute, BASt, only 44.4% of riders wore a helmet. This number refers to journeys within town, both on bicycles and on pedelecs.
When we look at the differences between bicycles and pedelecs, one thing stands out in particular: The rate of helmet wearing among cyclists was only half as high as among Pedelec riders. Only around 35% of cyclists wore helmets in 2023, while over 65% of Pedelec users wore helmets.
One positive thing to note is that the rate was highest among kids: because over 82% of 6 to 10 year olds have worn a helmet during their rides in the last year.
Protective effect of bicycle helmets in accidents
Modern bicycle helmets offer effective protection in the event of accidents and have become an indispensable part of road traffic.
- Reduction of impact energy by up to 80%
- Reducing the risk of traumatic brain injury
- Protection against injuries to the facial area
The protective effect is scientifically proven and can save lives or prevent serious injuries in an emergency.
Did you know?
There is a test that illustrates very well how important it is that you and your loved ones always wear a helmet when driving: this Melon test. This may sound a bit strange at first, but the test shows: If a melon falls to the ground from a height of around 1.50 meters, it breaks into many pieces. But if we now put a helmet on the melon, it is completely protected and survives the impact without breaking. Fascinating, right? If we now imagine the whole thing with our own heads, we quickly realize: the risk is too great, we should always wear a helmet when riding a bike!
Arguments for a general helmet requirement
Increased safety for cyclists: This is the most important reason for compulsory helmet use. Proponents of compulsory helmet use mainly argue for increased safety.
- Significant reduction in serious head injuries
- Potentially preventing fatal accidents
- Protection of particularly vulnerable groups (e.g. children, older people)
- Raising awareness of road safety
Potential cost savings in the healthcare system: Another argument for compulsory helmet use is possible savings in the healthcare system.
- Less serious injuries mean lower treatment costs
- Reduction of long-term consequences and need for care
- Relieving the burden on social security systems
Technical aspects: Which helmet is the right one?
Now we all know how important a helmet is when riding. But which bicycle helmet is right for me? We should primarily differentiate between bicycle and e-bike helmets.
Not every helmet is suitable for every type of bike:
- Classic bicycle helmets: Lightweight, well ventilated, suitable for normal bikes
- E-bike helmets: Reinforced protection, often with an integrated visor or chin bar
- MTB helmets: Additional protection in the back of the head area, more robust construction
When choosing the right helmet, the type of bike, type of use and personal preferences should be taken into account. For example, if you just want to ride around the city a little, a classic bicycle helmet is probably sufficient. However, if you are more adventurous, a mountain bike helmet is certainly not a bad idea!
Social acceptance of bicycle helmets
The change in the image of bicycle helmets: Helmets are finally popular!
The acceptance of bicycle helmets has improved significantly in recent years. We have picked out a few relevant and interesting facts for you:
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Increasing helmet wearing rates, especially at younger cyclists
What exactly does that mean? In 2010 only 9% wore a helmet, in 2020 it was 25% and last year 44%. - Helmets are increasingly being used as... fashion accessory perceived
- Prominent role models, like Dietmar Bär, Sebastian Krumbiegel & Boris Palmer, contribute to the popularity
- The former “uncool factor” of helmets no longer exists
At KED, we not only attach great importance to your safety, but also want to present you with a variety of unusual designs. That's why you'll find colorful, multi-faceted helmets and even in our shop Custom helmets, which you can design to suit your personal taste.
Campaigns to promote voluntary helmet use
The change in the helmet image is due, among other things, to the numerous motivational campaigns that exist across Germany.
Instead of coercion, many organizations rely on education and motivation:
- "I wear a helmet" - initiative of the German Traffic Watch
- “Protect your best” &
- “Wear a helmet. Be a role model.” - two “TAKE EIGHT IN TRAFFIC” campaigns
- Regional campaigns by schools, clubs and municipalities, such as Bike campaign
These campaigns aim to increase voluntary helmet use among both adults and children and young people and to raise awareness of road safety. We say: hats off – or better: helmet on! – to the organizers of these campaigns. Protect yourself and your passengers in traffic by wearing a cool and protective helmet.
Conclusion: personal responsibility vs. legal regulation
Even if there is no general legal requirement to wear a helmet, there are all arguments in favor of wearing a helmet when cycling. It is a question of personal responsibility and safety for you and everyone involved in the road.
At KED we place the highest value on your safety. Our helmets combine the latest protective technologies with attractive design and high wearing comfort. Whether for them city, the terrain or special E-bike models, we have the right helmet for you. Discover our diverse range of bicycle helmets now and find your perfect companion for more safety on two wheels.
