This bill amends existing helmet laws in New Jersey to require all individuals, regardless of age, to wear a helmet while operating bicycles, roller skates, skateboards, and both non-motorized and motorized scooters. Previously, the helmet requirement applied only to individuals under 17 years of age. The bill also includes new definitions for "scooter" and "motorized scooter," and mandates that businesses selling or renting these items must provide helmets to customers who do not already possess one. Additionally, the bill stipulates that businesses must post signs informing customers of the helmet requirements and that they will not be held liable for injuries sustained by users who fail to wear helmets, provided they comply with the law.

The bill further enhances safety measures by requiring that all roller skates, scooters, motorized scooters, and skateboards sold or rented include a warning notice about the necessity of wearing helmets and other protective gear. The enforcement of these provisions will be overseen by the Director of Consumer Affairs and local authorities. The bill is set to take effect seven months after its enactment, and it clarifies that its provisions do not apply to roller skating rinks governed by separate safety legislation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 39:4-10.1, 39:4-10.3, 39:4-10.5, 39:4-10.8, 39:4-10.9