Why Is Wearing a Motorcycle Helmet So Necessary?
Colburn Law
Posted in Motorcycle Accidents on February 7, 2023
Riding a motorcycle can be a thrilling experience, but it also comes with significant risks. Motorcycle accidents can result in serious injuries or even death, which is why wearing a helmet is essential. This protective headgear can reduce the risks of serious head, neck, and brain injuries, and may also protect your eyes, nose, and mouth from additional hazards.
Despite the benefits of wearing a motorcycle helmet, some riders still choose not to wear one. Failure to wear a helmet not only increases the risk of a serious injury, but it could also affect your ability to recover compensation following an accident.
Why Should You Wear a Motorcycle Helmet?
A motorcycle helmet is the most important piece of protective gear a rider can wear. In the event of an accident, a helmet can help prevent head injuries and even save a rider’s life. The force of a crash can cause a rider’s head to hit the ground or other objects, resulting in serious head injuries, including traumatic brain injury, skull fractures, and concussions. A motorcycle helmet can reduce the risk of these types of injuries by cushioning the impact of the blow.
Furthermore, a motorcycle helmet can protect a rider’s face and eyes from flying debris such as rocks and bugs as well as wind, rain, and other weather conditions. This helps the rider stay comfortable and focused on the road. Additionally, a helmet can provide a level of noise reduction, which can help prevent hearing loss.
Failure to Wear a Helmet Could Affect Your Accident Claim
In Washington state, motorcyclists have the right to file an insurance claim or lawsuit against a driver who caused an accident that resulted in their injuries. However, motorcyclists often face unique challenges when pursuing compensation. Insurance companies, juries, and other parties often scrutinize motorcycle riders unfairly, blaming them for the accident, even if the other driver was at fault.
If a motorcyclist was not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident, it could trigger Washington state’s comparative negligence law. Under this statute, the motorcyclist may be found partially responsible for the accident. The court will then reduce his or her compensation by the percentage of fault that he or she allegedly shares.
The comparative negligence law may also be used by insurance companies to reduce the amount of compensation paid out to the injured motorcyclist or even deny the claim completely. Adjusters may argue that the lack of a helmet contributed to the rider’s injuries, and therefore, the rider is partially responsible. This argument can be especially persuasive if the rider’s injuries are head or brain-related.
What to Do If You Were Injured in a Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycle accidents can be scary experiences. If you are injured in one of these collisions, it is critical to call 911, report the accident to the police, and seek medical attention as soon as possible. Then, you should contact a Washington motorcycle accident lawyer to protect your right to compensation.
Navigating a motorcycle accident claim can be challenging, especially if you were not wearing a helmet at the time. Your attorney can help protect your right to recovery and defend you against accusations of fault. As soon as possible following the accident, schedule a free case consultation to learn more about your legal options.