The Value of a Helmet in a Motorcycle Accident
Motorcyclists are at high risk of sustaining a head injury when in a traffic accident because of the relative lack of bodily protection compared to those who drive in enclosed vehicles. A serious motorcycle accident can lead to devastating brain injuries that can require extensive medical treatment and hospitalization. For many victims, a traumatic head injury can have long-lasting consequences.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the use of a motorcycle helmet is the single most effective way to save a motorcyclist’s life in the event of an accident. Fortunately, the State of California works to ensure all motorcyclists are equipped with the necessary safety gear when riding a motorcycle.
California Vehicle Code §27803
Under California Vehicle Code §27803, motorcyclists and their passengers must be in use of a safety helmet that meets the requirements established by Vehicle Code §27802 when riding the motorcycle. It is unlawful for riders to operate a motorcycle when not wearing a helmet. According to Vehicle Code §27802, a safety motorcycle helmet must follow the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard N. 218, which includes the following: Helmet straps to secure the helmet in place, Be of the right size for the person using it, and should not have excessive lateral or vertical movement.
The Effectiveness of a Helmet in a Motorcycle Accident
According to the CDC, evidence suggests that the establishment of a state-wide law for the use of helmets leads to higher rates of helmet use and lower rates of motorcycle-related injuries and death. In addition to saving lives and deterring serious injuries, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that $9.2 billion in comprehensive costs could have been saved in 2016 if all riders wore helmets.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also found the following to be true after a helmet law was passed: Riders who were involved in an accident were 11.7 times more likely to be in use of a helmet at the time of the accident; Motorcycle accident fatalities were 30 percent less likely; and Severe and moderate injuries also lessened once the law was passed.
Overall, the agency reports the following: Helmets saved approximately 2,000 lives in 2016 alone; If every rider wore a helmet in 2016, an additional 802 more rider’s lives would have been saved; Every year, the U.S. could save an additional $1 billion in economic costs if all riders wear helmets; The use of a helmet reduces the risk of death by nearly 40 percent; The use of a helmet reduces the risk of head trauma by nearly 70 percent.
Obtain Legal Advocacy Following a Motorcycle Accident
Wearing a helmet can be a lifesaver in the event of an accident. Still, some collisions supersede helmet protections and cause serious injuries to the motorcyclists involved. If you or someone you love was involved in a motorcycle accident and sustained serious injuries, speak to a reputable personal injury attorney who has the right legal experience.
At the Knez Law Group, helping injured motorcyclists recover damages after a serious traffic accident is of utmost importance. Following a motorcycle accident, you will need the support of a skilled attorney who will advocate for your right to obtain maximum compensation. Consider obtaining the support of the Knez Law Group and schedule your no-obligation consultation by calling (951) 742-7681 today.
Matthew J. Knez graduated from the University of Redlands in California where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Creative Writing. He went on to pursue his Law Degree at the University of LaVerne, College of Law in Ontario, California. While pursuing his law degree he earned various awards, including CALI Award in Torts and he was on the Dean’s List. Mr. Knez was also a member of the Justice and Immigration Clinic where he worked with people seeking asylum into the United States from countries where they had experienced persecution or threat of persecution. Additionally, Mr. Knez was a member of Law Review where he was an Associate Editor and published a Law Review article on California family custody move-away cases.