Check with your insurance company to make sure the'll cover you without a helmet. I recently had someone tell me that riders that ride in states that don't require helmets pay for an extra rider on their insurance policy and that if your from a state that requires a helmet and you get in an accident without one, there might be some claim issues. Has any one else heard of this?

 

Yeah. here in Oregon, the "requirement" is a DOT lid, but my wife & I wear novelty ones. Never been pulled over for that. In Washington, make sure it at least LOOKS like a bona-fide DOT (meh) brain bucket.

 

Yes, you may want to look up what the laws are for those states. You may not have a choice in the matter as most of our state gov't don't think we can handle a decision like that. Fortunately for me, I live in a "freedom of choice" state. At least SC is good for something.

 

While most are answered now, for future reference, try this link:

http://usff.com/hldl/frames/50state.html

 

Why not just buy a DOT helmet for the trip, and avoid any potential problems?

 

http://www.amadirectlink.com/legisltn/laws.asp
There is the link to the AMA site that I use before planing trips. DOT or Novelty is your choice. I never understood why people bitch about getting ticketed when wearing a novelty bucket. I can spot those in a heart beat going down the road at 60mph. I would think that an LEO that spends all day on the highways would be able to do the same. I don't wear one riding here in Ohio for the most part but if I am in a state that requires one I wear a legit DOT just to avoid the hassle.

 

I live in No. CA and I have a few friends who wear non DOT helmets. They've never been pulled over for it, but just suppose you did. The cop who pulls you over and writes you for it is not going to let you continue on down the road without a proper helmet. It's your choice.

 

Here is a good website that stays abreast of the current helmet laws by state: http://usff.com/hldl/frames/50state.html

They also list the Statute, Fine, Standards, and Court Decisions by state.

 

Your list didn't include Utah, but just in case you make it here -
- you don't need a helmet, but would be wise to wear one anyway as cager protection

 

Well,I hate having to wear helmets here in Va.I would just like it to be my choice.That said anytime on the highway or riding for a long time.I would always wear my helmet if I were you.Better to be safe,than sorry.