Delaware Injury Attorneys Discuss the Importance of Motorcycle Helmet Laws

Compassionate motorcycle accident lawyers help clients balance enjoyment and safety when riding a motorcycle in Wilmington, Seaford and Newark, DE

Motorcycles have incredibly powerful engines that allow them to achieve high speeds, but they provide no protection for the rider in the event of a crash. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration research reports that in 2013, for every mile traveled, the number of deaths on motorcycles were 26 times the number of those traveling in cars. Additional NHTSA research reports that helmet use is 37 percent effective in preventing death in motorcycle accidents, and 67 percent effective in preventing brain injuries for motorcycle riders. Helmet use has the potential to save lives, but motorcycle helmet laws in the United States have been fraught with controversy. Despite the fact that they provide protection from death and head injury, there are many riders who prefer not to wear a helmet, or who prefer that there not be a law requiring them to wear a helmet.

Motorcycle helmet laws in the U.S.

There are two basic types of motorcycle helmet use laws: the first is a universal helmet law, which requires all motorcyclists to wear a helmet. This type of law is in place in 19 states. The second type of helmet law is the partial law, which requires only certain motorcyclists (riders between the ages of 17 and 20) to wear a helmet in 28 states. There are three states: Illinois, Iowa, and New Hampshire where there is no helmet law in place. Delaware is a partial law state where all motorcycle riders under the age of 18 are required to wear a helmet.

According to the NHTSA’s National Occupant Protection Use Survey, motorcycle helmet use reached 64 percent in June 2014. Helmet use, according to the survey, among motorcycle passengers was 51 percent in 2014. The western states have the highest helmet use at 85 percent, which is down from 92 percent in 2013. In the southern states, helmet use rose from 65 percent in 2013 to 78 percent in 2014. In the northeast, helmet use was 56 percent in 2014, which is up from 52 percent in 2013, and in the Midwest, helmet use was at 47 percent in 2014, which is up from 42 percent in 2013. The report shows that usage rates are higher in states that have universal laws. In states with partial laws, usage was 48 percent in 2014. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has an interactive map that shows the states with universal helmet laws and the other states. In states with universal helmet laws, motorcycle riders can get a ticket for not wearing a helmet. In Delaware, the fine for a rider under the age of 18 not wearing a helmet ranges from $25. To $115 for the first offense.

Choosing and wearing an approved motorcycle helmet

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration website has a page on motorcycle safety that includes a video with tips for choosing the right motorcycle helmet.

At the law firm of Silverman, McDonald & Friedman, we protect the rights of our clients who have been injured in motorcycle accidents. Our team of Delaware motorcycle accident lawyers investigate the incident and discover who is at fault in causing the accident, and we will hold the responsible party liable for the injuries you have suffered. We strive to win the best compensation possible for our injured clients. Put our skill, experience, and winning record to work in your favor today.

Schedule a free consultation to discuss your motorcycle accident today

Injuries suffered in motorcycle accidents can devastate people’s lives. At the law firm of Silverman, McDonald & Friedman, we fight diligently for the rights of motorcycle riders who have been injured in crashes with passenger or commercial vehicles. You may call us at 312.314.5553 or fill out our quick contact form to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case and get sound, legal advice. From our offices in Wilmington, Newark, and Seaford we serve clients throughout Delaware.