Heads Up on Florida Equestrian Helmet Law

By Kimbrell J. Hines, Attorney at Law

Florida law requires individuals under the age of 16 to wear a properly fit, securely fastened, American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) certified helmet when horseback riding.

Riders under 16 must wear a helmet when riding on:

  1. Public roads or rights-of-way;
  2. Public equestrian or recreational trails;
  3. Public parks or preserves;
  4. Public school sites; or
  5. Any other publicly owned property.

The law provides several exceptions for riders practicing for and competing in events where wearing a helmet is not the norm. Equestrians riding on private land or engaged in agricultural practices are also not required to wear a helmet when riding.

The statute provides that parents, trainers, and supervisors are responsible for ensuring that riders under 16 years old comply with the law. Those responsible for ensuring compliance, along with the under age rider, may both be fined up to $500 per violation.

*** Kimbrell J. Hines is an active equestrian and an equine attorney with Turkel Cuva Barrios, P.A., d/b/a Turkel • Cuva • Barrios • Guerra. Kimbrell has extensive knowledge of the nuances of the legal and business challenges that horse owners and enthusiasts experience in the equine industry. Kimbrell represents clients in matters including injuries to horses and riders, sale and purchase contracts, leases and boarding agreements, USEF & FEI compliance and responses, and claims concerning professionals providing equine-related services. Kimbrell obtained her law degree and bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida, where she competed for the University of Florida Equestrian Team. She also has a Master of Science in Human Resource Management from the University of Tennessee. Kimbrell may be reached at khines@tcb-law.com or 813-834-9191. 

*** This article is provided as a guide for educational purposes only. It is not intended to serve as legal advice and should not be used as a substitute for consultation with an attorney.

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