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Safety Laws in South Dakota

Helmet Laws
Motorcycles
All riders 17 and younger must wear a helmet.
Bicycles
There currently are no laws requiring helmets.
Headlights
Motorcycles
Headlights required during daylight.
Vehicles
Headlights must be turned on:
- From one half hour after sunset until one half hour before sunrise.
- When visibility, due to weather or darkness, is limited to less than 200 feet ahead.
Cell Phones and Texting
As of March 2011, there are no statewide bans against cell phone use or texting.
Child Car Seat Laws
- All kids under five years old and who weigh less than 40 pounds must ride in federally-approved car seat or booster.
- All kids 17 and under must use a seat belt if they are not seated in a safety seat or booster.
If you're in the market for one, you can shop online for a child car seat at any time. Before ordering, be sure to read our article on How to Buy a Child Safety Seat.
Reporting a Drunk or Dangerous Driver
Dial 911 to report a driver you suspect of being drunk or a menace to the road. Try to provide the vehicle's license plate
number, make and model, location and travel direction.Reporting Unattended Kids in Cars
Call 911 with the vehicle's location and description if you feel the child inside is in danger. Remain with the vehicle until authorities arrive.
Reporting Unattended Pets in Cars
If you sense that the pet's health is in danger due to cold or heat, call the local police department or animal control unit.
Other Topics in This Section
- Traffic Alerts
- 511 Traffic Systems
- Recalls
- Tire Recalls
- How Emotions Affect Driving
- Driving in Hazardous Conditions
- Teen Drivers: A Beginner's Guide
- Seniors: When To Turn Over The Car Keys
- Packing Your First-Aid Kit
- Seven Senior Safety Suggestions
- Wildlife on the Road
- When to Call Wildlife Rescue
- Taking A Mature Driver Course
- Medications & Driving
- Night Driving
- Hallucinations on the Road
- How To Drive Distraction Free
- Treating Motion Sickness
- Road Rage: How To Deal With It
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