This bill amends existing New Jersey law 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 scooters and motorized scooters, 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 requirement and that they will not be liable for injuries sustained by users who fail to wear a helmet, provided they comply with the law.

Furthermore, the bill enhances the existing legal framework that requires warning notices for the sale of bicycles, roller skates, and skateboards, extending these requirements to scooters and motorized scooters. The bill specifies that the warning notices must be clearly visible and include a statement about the necessity of wearing protective gear. It also clarifies that the provisions do not apply to operators and patrons of roller skating rinks governed by a separate law. The bill is set to take effect seven months after its enactment.

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