[Dave pinette]

Hi all just moved from CT (no helmet law) to middle TN. Bought a slingshot for myself and after my honey drove it I realized I needed to buy another for myself as I wasn't getting mine back! We are both looking forward to riding in beautiful TN without helmets. Does anyone have anything I can show the local law enforcement
( copy of the new law ) or anything like the email Thumper said he recieved?
Glad 2Quicks ticket was thrown out.
[email protected] if Thumper or others have that information

 

[Dave pinette]

To all Tennessee SS riders. I have verify with Tn state of safety and homeland. Slingshot riders don't have to wear helmet but must wear seatbelt.
Please review Tn code Ann. 55-9-302(a). This data was also confirmed by Tn highway trooper and a memo is being sent out to all troopers. I have a copy of memo/email. I was told to copy and keep with me just in case local police don't understand the code. If anyone wants a copy of these strings of these emails send me message with your addy and I will forward
starting Saturday I am going without. I will keep you all updated but don't foresee any issues

Hi Thumper can you send to [email protected]. .thanks

 

[dmoxley49]

I know it has been awhile since the last post was made to this thread, however, my wife and I were stopped today for not wearing a helmet. That happened in Jackson, TN (we live in Bells, TN). The trooper that stopped us was very professional and spent time with us discussing the reasons for the stop. We had a copy of the latest changes to the requirement/exception for a helmet in an "autocycle" which he agreed to read. As it turned out, a sheet of paper he had and asked us to read right after the stop, contained the same information. So what was the problem. The definition of enclosed, or to be more specific, totally enclosed. On the paper we were shown, there is an example/picture of an aftermarket top on a Slingshot. If that top were installed, then no helmet is required.

To my knowledge, aftermarket tops do not provide any structural components that protect the occupants during a rollover. That job for the Slingshot falls to the roll bars/hoops. From our discussion with the officer, I believe that the paper he was given suggests that the aftermarket tops do provide some degree of protection during a rollover and does away with the need for a helmet. That was not specifically stated on the paper as far as I can recall but I may be mistaken..

As I stated, the trooper was very professional and also very understanding. The end result was no citation and we went on our way toward our home.

For me, if a top eliminates the need for a helmet, then it should at the very least provide some protection during a rollover. They do not, but then there are roll bar/hoops that do. Finally, the definition of fully enclosed is vague.

As for our future rides in Tennessee, we will wear helmets, while searching for somebody that can clarify exactly what a fully enclosed Slingshot looks like, how they do away with or take the place of a helmet, and finally, what part the roll bars/hoops play in all of this.

One step forward and more than a couple back. We do not have a bone to pick over being made to wear a helmet. We understand the risks of not wearing one. We would just like to see some written directives that clearly define the requirements and when they apply.

 

[TN SLINGSHOT]

I know it has been awhile since the last post was made to this thread, however, my wife and I were stopped today for not wearing a helmet. That happened in Jackson, TN (we live in Bells, TN). The trooper that stopped us was very professional and spent time with us discussing the reasons for the stop. We had a copy of the latest changes to the requirement/exception for a helmet in an "autocycle" which he agreed to read. As it turned out, a sheet of paper he had and asked us to read right after the stop, contained the same information. So what was the problem. The definition of enclosed, or to be more specific, totally enclosed. On the paper we were shown, there is an example/picture of an aftermarket top on a Slingshot. If that top were installed, then no helmet is required.

To my knowledge, aftermarket tops do not provide any structural components that protect the occupants during a rollover. That job for the Slingshot falls to the roll bars/hoops. From our discussion with the officer, I believe that the paper he was given suggests that the aftermarket tops do provide some degree of protection during a rollover and does away with the need for a helmet. That was not specifically stated on the paper as far as I can recall but I may be mistaken..

As I stated, the trooper was very professional and also very understanding. The end result was no citation and we went on our way toward our home.

For me, if a top eliminates the need for a helmet, then it should at the very least provide some protection during a rollover. They do not, but then there are roll bar/hoops that do. Finally, the definition of fully enclosed is vague.

As for our future rides in Tennessee, we will wear helmets, while searching for somebody that can clarify exactly what a fully enclosed Slingshot looks like, how they do away with or take the place of a helmet, and finally, what part the roll bars/hoops play in all of this.

One step forward and more than a couple back. We do not have a bone to pick over being made to wear a helmet. We understand the risks of not wearing one. We would just like to see some written directives that clearly define the requirements and when they apply.

 

[TN SLINGSHOT]

Dont think politics will keep you safe . You need to have common sence.

 

[penrose]

I know it has been awhile since the last post was made to this thread, however, my wife and I were stopped today for not wearing a helmet. That happened in Jackson, TN (we live in Bells, TN). The trooper that stopped us was very professional and spent time with us discussing the reasons for the stop. We had a copy of the latest changes to the requirement/exception for a helmet in an "autocycle" which he agreed to read. As it turned out, a sheet of paper he had and asked us to read right after the stop, contained the same information. So what was the problem. The definition of enclosed, or to be more specific, totally enclosed. On the paper we were shown, there is an example/picture of an aftermarket top on a Slingshot. If that top were installed, then no helmet is required.

To my knowledge, aftermarket tops do not provide any structural components that protect the occupants during a rollover. That job for the Slingshot falls to the roll bars/hoops. From our discussion with the officer, I believe that the paper he was given suggests that the aftermarket tops do provide some degree of protection during a rollover and does away with the need for a helmet. That was not specifically stated on the paper as far as I can recall but I may be mistaken..

As I stated, the trooper was very professional and also very understanding. The end result was no citation and we went on our way toward our home.

For me, if a top eliminates the need for a helmet, then it should at the very least provide some protection during a rollover. They do not, but then there are roll bar/hoops that do. Finally, the definition of fully enclosed is vague.

As for our future rides in Tennessee, we will wear helmets, while searching for somebody that can clarify exactly what a fully enclosed Slingshot looks like, how they do away with or take the place of a helmet, and finally, what part the roll bars/hoops play in all of this.

One step forward and more than a couple back. We do not have a bone to pick over being made to wear a helmet. We understand the risks of not wearing one. We would just like to see some written directives that clearly define the requirements and when they apply.

I am glad he did not give you a ticket. However, I still believe he gave you a hassle. I believe he knows the law and he stopped you pretending he did not know the law as a reason to stop you . I bet he asked for license and registration.

 

[Mayor]

To all Tennessee SS riders. I have verify with Tn state of safety and homeland. Slingshot riders don't have to wear helmet but must wear seatbelt.
Please review Tn code Ann. 55-9-302(a). This data was also confirmed by Tn highway trooper and a memo is being sent out to all troopers. I have a copy of memo/email. I was told to copy and keep with me just in case local police don't understand the code. If anyone wants a copy of these strings of these emails send me message with your addy and I will forward
starting Saturday I am going without. I will keep you all updated but don't foresee any issues

Could you please send me a copy.

 

[Mr Kevin]

To all Tennessee SS riders. I have verify with Tn state of safety and homeland. Slingshot riders don't have to wear helmet but must wear seatbelt.
Please review Tn code Ann. 55-9-302(a). This data was also confirmed by Tn highway trooper and a memo is being sent out to all troopers. I have a copy of memo/email. I was told to copy and keep with me just in case local police don't understand the code. If anyone wants a copy of these strings of these emails send me message with your addy and I will forward
starting Saturday I am going without. I will keep you all updated but don't foresee any issues

I actually thought riding with no helmet was a good idea, could make you feel free. I guess that feeling only applies on local city streets where you travel around 35mph. On the Interstates, you have to be insane to ride without a helmet and a face screen. I have had the experience of getting pelted in the face from road debris being kicked up by 18 wheelers and even gravel from the top of dump truck. It hurts and stings as those little pieces fly into you. Those shredded recapped tire pieces are also dangerous as they are razor sharp. On top of that, you need to be mindful of those little kids who get joy out of tossing rocks off overpasses. A bit pessimistic? I would agree on that too. At least until you become a victim of it. Wear your helmet for your safety and when you are locally cruising up and down city streets, by all means, if your state allows no helmet, do it. Just remember what I said about Interstates, highways, bi-ways and turnpikes.

 

[wjfyfe]

I actually thought riding with no helmet was a good idea, could make you feel free. I guess that feeling only applies on local city streets where you travel around 35mph. On the Interstates, you have to be insane to ride without a helmet and a face screen. I have had the experience of getting pelted in the face from road debris being kicked up by 18 wheelers and even gravel from the top of dump truck. It hurts and stings as those little pieces fly into you. Those shredded recapped tire pieces are also dangerous as they are razor sharp. On top of that, you need to be mindful of those little kids who get joy out of tossing rocks off overpasses. A bit pessimistic? I would agree on that too. At least until you become a victim of it. Wear your helmet for your safety and when you are locally cruising up and down city streets, by all means, if your state allows no helmet, do it. Just remember what I said about Interstates, highways, bi-ways and turnpikes.

As Justina and I nod in agreement...................

Bill

 

[Mayor]

To all Tennessee SS riders. I have verify with Tn state of safety and homeland. Slingshot riders don't have to wear helmet but must wear seatbelt.
Please review Tn code Ann. 55-9-302(a). This data was also confirmed by Tn highway trooper and a memo is being sent out to all troopers. I have a copy of memo/email. I was told to copy and keep with me just in case local police don't understand the code. If anyone wants a copy of these strings of these emails send me message with your addy and I will forward
starting Saturday I am going without. I will keep you all updated but don't foresee any issues

Sorry I left out my address. But could you send me a copy of this. [email protected]. Im only about 60 miles north of you.

 

["The Ghost"]

I would love to have a copy of the law where it clearly states that we do or do not have to wear the helmet while riding in the SS with the seat belt on. Can anyone direct me to it or does it actually exist?

 

[patrickmead]

I would love to have a copy. The sheriff's (Williamson County) and the local police (Franklin) say you don't need a helmet. Some State Troopers are saying that as of November 2017 they are ticketing SS riders who aren't helmeted. By the way, they (the Staties) also say it is illegal for a kid to ride in one, even with a helmet. I showed their email about that to my lawyer. He said I could take kids for rides anyway. He thinks a judge would toss the State's charge. Still, I'd hate to get pulled over with a kid in my SS and have them get scared. Not sure why some State Troopers have a thing against SS.

 

[patrickmead]

Forgot email -- [email protected] (yep, weird address. I'm a pastor)

 

[cotten]

Hi Patrick! Welcome to the wonderful world of Slingshotting! Slingshooting? Slinging? Whatever the term, I love it! I am a music pastor, still working part time after retiring as a full time guy for a long time. Part time work is paying for my little go cart thingy! I wear a helmet, required or not - I think it is in Georgia. Looking forward to your joining the conversation - and to warmer weather!

 

[patrickmead]

Good to meet you, Cotten. I'm a former neuroscientist, now a pastor, but I also play finger style guitar (and ukulele and banjo) behind some great singers here in the Nashville area, including at the Nashville Symphony. Come on up and play with us some time.

 

[cotten]

I would love to! I have a couple of low level classicals and such, a 2000 Taylor 914c, a 1995 Taylor Cotten 612c, and because I moderated the Acoustic Guitar Forum for so long, people chipped in and allowed me to commission an extraordinary McKnight Guitars custom - Carpathian Spruce over Ziricote. Also play other instruments, and conduct. Would love to play banjo, too, but they put that stupid treble string up there where the bass notes are supposed to be! One bad thing about my SS is that there is not a lot of room for music gear...

 

[patrickmead]

• Me heading toward the Schermerhorn with my Taylor K28 riding shotgun.
• 
  

 

[cotten]

I do the same thing with my guitars in the SS, though if I put them on the floorboard I have room for my little Ultrasound AG50 DS4 amp and a small gig bag in the seat, all properly belted in, of course. I bought a Colorado Case Cover before they went out of business - helps with the bug guts and quick temperature changes. I am tempted to put a helmet over the case headstock, and paint a big, crazy grin on the face shield. My wife tells me my grin is sufficient. She's probably right. (What am I saying? She's a wife, so that goes without saying!)

 

[Nashville's Dark Knight]

Hello,
I'm new to this. I have had a Slingshot for 2 years now and have not worn a helmet in TN. I live in Murfreesboro. I normally drive my SS when I'm cosplaying as my cosplay character Nashville's Dark Knight . I just been reading that some people are having issues with law enforcement .Could I have a copy of this Tn code Ann. 55-9-302? My email is [email protected]. I want to do what's right but not sure what's the correct way to go. I see people all around middle TN driving without a helmet . If someone could help me out I would be very greatful.

 

["The Ghost"]

This is what google provided.

HELMET LAW TN Code annotated. Section 55-9-302. Crash helmet required for driver and passenger — Exceptions. —

(a) The driver of a motorcycle, motorized bicycle, as defined in chapter 8 of this title, or motor-driven cycle, and any passenger on any of these, shall be required to wear either a crash helmet meeting federal standards contained in 49 CFR 571.218,

or, if such driver or passenger is twenty-one (21) years of age or older, a helmet meeting the following requirements:

(1) Except as provided in subdivisions (a)(2)-(4), the helmet shall meet federal motor vehicle safety standards specified in 49 CFR 571.218;

(2) Notwithstanding any provision in 49 CFR 571.218 relative to helmet penetration standards, ventilation airways may penetrate through the entire shell of the helmet; provided, that no ventilation airway shall exceed one and one-half inches (1 ½″) in diameter;

(3) Notwithstanding any provision in 49 CFR 571.218, the protective surface shall not be required to be a continuous contour; and

(4) Notwithstanding any provision in 49 CFR 571.218 to the contrary, a label on the helmet shall be affixed signifying that such helmet complies with the requirements of the American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM), the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the Southern Impact Research Center (SIRC), or the Snell Foundation.

(b) This section does not apply to persons riding:

(1) Within an enclosed cab;

(2) Motorcycles that are fully enclosed, have three

(3) wheels in contact with the ground, weigh less than one thousand five hundred pounds (1,500 lbs.) and have the capacity to maintain posted highway speed limits;

(3) Golf carts; or

(4) In a parade, at a speed not to exceed thirty (30) miles per hour, if the person is eighteen (18) years or older. [Acts 1967, ch. 45, § 2 (T.C.A. (supp.), § 50-944); Acts 1976, ch. 758, § 2; 1979, ch. 247, § 10; T.C.A., § 59-934; Acts 2000, ch. 606, § 3; 2005, ch. 430, § 1; 2005, ch. 459, § 1; 2006, ch. 535, § 1.]