Can you wear a GoPro on your helmet in California?
In recent years, GoPro cameras have become increasingly popular among outdoor enthusiasts looking to capture and share their experiences. With their small size and durable construction, GoPro cameras are ideal for capturing footage while engaging in high-energy activities such as skiing, surfing, and mountain biking.
However, when it comes to using a GoPro camera on a helmet while riding a motorcycle or bicycle in California, there are some legal and safety considerations to keep in mind. While California law does not explicitly prohibit the use of GoPro cameras on helmets, there are specific regulations that must be followed to ensure safety.
In this article, we will explore the legality of using a GoPro camera on a helmet in California, including the helmet safety standards that must be met, the types of mounts that can be used, and how to position the camera correctly. By the end of this article, you will have all the information you need to safely and legally use a GoPro camera on your helmet while riding in California.
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Understanding the Law
California law doesn’t explicitly prohibit wearing a GoPro camera on a helmet. However, there are some regulations that must be followed to ensure safety. The California Vehicle Code states that helmets must meet certain standards, and any attachments to the helmet must not interfere with the helmet’s ability to protect the rider in the event of an accident. Therefore, any camera attachment, including GoPro cameras, must not protrude more than 5mm from the surface of the helmet. If it does, it may interfere with the helmet’s safety features and be considered illegal.
Helmet Safety Standards in California
California law requires that all motorcycle riders wear helmets that meet certain safety standards. The helmet must have a Department of Transportation (DOT) sticker to indicate that it meets the standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). These standards ensure that the helmet is durable, absorbs impact energy, has a secure chinstrap, and provides adequate ventilation.
Similarly, bicycle riders under the age of 18 are required to wear helmets in California. However, there are no specific helmet standards for bicycles, and the state does not require helmets for riders over 18 years of age.
GoPro on Helmet: What the Law Says
California law does not prohibit the use of a GoPro camera on a helmet. However, any attachment to the helmet must comply with the helmet safety standards mentioned above. Additionally, it must not interfere with the helmet’s safety features, such as its ability to absorb impact energy or its visibility.
The GoPro camera must be attached to the helmet in a way that it does not protrude more than 5mm from the surface of the helmet. This ensures that the camera does not interfere with the helmet’s ability to protect the rider’s head in the event of an accident.
Using a GoPro Camera on a Helmet
If you want to use a GoPro camera on your helmet, there are some steps you can take to ensure that it’s done safely and legally.
- Check the Helmet’s Safety Standards
Before attaching a GoPro camera to your helmet, make sure that it meets the required safety standards. The helmet must have a DOT sticker to indicate that it meets the standards set by the NHTSA.
- Choose the Right Mount
GoPro offers a variety of mounts that can be used to attach the camera to a helmet. However, not all of these mounts may be suitable for use on a helmet. It’s essential to choose a mount that is specifically designed for use on a helmet and is not too bulky or obstructive.
- Position the Camera Correctly
The GoPro camera must be positioned correctly on the helmet to ensure that it does not interfere with the helmet’s safety features. It should be attached to the top or side of the helmet and should not protrude more than 5mm from the surface of the helmet.
- Test the Mount
Before hitting the road or trail with your GoPro camera attached to your helmet, test the mount to ensure that it’s secure and does not move or wobble when the helmet is worn. This will ensure that the camera stays in place and does not become a distraction or safety hazard while riding.
Conclusion
In conclusion, using a GoPro camera on your helmet is legal in California, as long as it does not protrude more than 5mm from the surface of the helmet and comply with the helmet safety standards. GoPro cameras can be a great way to capture your adventures while riding a motorcycle or bicycle in California, but safety should always come first.
If you’re considering using a GoPro camera on your helmet, make sure that your helmet meets the required safety standards and that the camera is attached correctly. Always test the mount to ensure that it’s secure and does not interfere with the helmet’s safety features.
Remember, wearing a helmet is required by law in California, and it’s essential to follow all safety regulations to protect yourself while enjoying outdoor activities. So, go ahead and capture your adventures with a GoPro camera on your helmet, but make sure you do it safely and legally.
