The bill amends existing motor vehicle laws in New Mexico by eliminating the provision that states failure to wear a safety helmet shall not constitute contributory negligence. Specifically, it repeals Sections 32A-24-5 and 66-3-1010.4, which previously indicated that not using a safety helmet would not be considered fault or negligence and would not limit or apportion damages in legal cases.
Additionally, the bill introduces a new provision that exempts autocycle operators from the helmet requirements outlined in the mandatory use of protective helmets section. This change aims to clarify the legal responsibilities of motorcycle operators and passengers under the age of eighteen regarding helmet use while also addressing the specific regulations for autocycle vehicles.
Statutes affected: introduced version: 66-7-356