Are Helmets Important To Motorcyclist Safety In Texas?

On behalf of Lovett Law Firm posted in Motorcycle Accidents on Thursday, January 22, 2015.

Motorcycles can be dangerous vehicles, especially due to the fact that you, as a rider, have little protection against impacts. Helmets are something many states are considering making riders wear by law, and in some areas, helmets are required. Why? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, universal helmet laws save money and lives.

The CDC reports that helmets can prevent serious injuries and deaths from motorcycle crashes. The CDC shows that in 2010 alone, 4,502 people were killed in motorcycle accidents. It’s not clear how many people’s lives could have been saved with helmet use, but statistics do show a difference in survival rates.

With dangerous drivers on the road, motorcyclists need to be proactive. Although a crash may not be your fault, the injuries you suffer may be able to be reduced with the use of a helmet. Helmets are estimated to be able to prevent 37 percent of crash deaths for motorcycle drivers and 41 percent of deaths for passengers.

On top of those statistics, wearing a helmet is shown to save money. The CDC shows that states that have universal motorcycle helmet laws had cost savings of close to four times higher than states without these regulations. The state saves money on medical care costs and productivity losses when people are able to reduce or eliminate injuries through simple helmet use.

With the right helmet use, you may be able to protect yourself against injuries you receive in a crash. You must wear a helmet until you’re over 21 in Texas, although you need one at all times when you’re driving off-road. If you’re struck by a negligent driver, remember that you may be able to receive compensation for your injuries as well as the damage to your vehicle.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Motorcycle Safety” accessed Jan. 22, 2015