As skiing continues to grow in popularity, so does awareness around safety, especially when it comes to helmets. But are ski helmets legally required? The answer depends on where you ski, and the rules can be surprisingly different from state to state and resort to resort.
State Laws vs. Resort Policies
In the United States, very few states have laws mandating ski helmet use. The most notable is New Jersey, which requires anyone under 18 to wear a helmet while skiing or snowboarding. Other states, including Vermont, Colorado, and California, recommend helmets but leave the decision to individuals and ski area operators.
Because state wide rules are limited, resorts often set their own policies. Many require employees, particularly ski instructors and patrollers to wear helmets. Some mandate helmets for children in lessons or terrain parks. A growing number strongly encourage helmet use through discounts, signage, or rental packages.
Why Helmets Matter
While helmets can’t prevent every injury, they significantly reduce the risk of serious head trauma. Modern helmets are lightweight, warm, and designed to work with goggles for visibility and comfort. For families skiing or biking with kids, helmets are widely considered essential gear.
Liability and Legal Considerations
In most states, skiing can be treated as a “dangerous sport,” meaning participants assume certain inherent risks. Not wearing a helmet typically doesn’t prevent someone from pursuing a claim if another party’s negligence caused their injury. However, failure to wear a helmet might be raised in disputes about comparative negligence, especially in cases involving head injuries.
Bottom Line
Helmet use is widely encouraged and recommended, often required for kids in lessons, and increasingly expected on the slopes, even if not legally mandated. Before you or your family skis, check the resort’s policies and make safety part of your planning. It is better to be safe.
If you or a loved one has been injured on the mountain, The Brown Law Firm is here to help you understand your rights and navigate your next steps.
