Helmet Laws in California
Have you been involved in a motorcycle crash in California? Our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers at M&Y Personal Injury Lawyers can help you pursue compensation for your injuries.
Motorcyclists are 29 times more likely to die in an accident than occupants in passenger cars. Individuals who survive these accidents are often left with serious life-altering injuries. Wearing a helmet significantly decreases the risk of death and serious injuries in the event of an accident.
Helmet laws in California mandate that all motorcycle drivers and passengers wear a helmet. This law also applies to any motorized bicycle that is driven on highways.
Call us at (877) 300-4535 or contact M&Y Personal Injury Lawyers to speak with one of our accomplished Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyers. We offer a free consultation to review your case and discuss your options.
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How Can M&Y Personal Injury Lawyers Help After a Motorcycle Accident in California?
Our personal injury attorneys at M&Y Personal Injury Lawyers understand the trauma of accidents and the devastation that can follow. It’s especially difficult when your accident was the result of another’s negligence and could have been prevented.
That’s why we make it our priority to do everything we can to help our clients get through this overwhelming time.
Here’s how our Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyers approach accident cases to ensure our clients get the exceptional legal representation they deserve:
- Conduct our own investigation of the accident and review all evidence
- Consult leading experts, including accident reconstructionists, motorcycle specialists, and medical professionals
- Ensure you’re kept informed and involved throughout the process
- Develop a legal strategy in consultation with you
- Negotiate with insurance companies to fight for a fair settlement
If the insurance companies don’t cooperate, we’ll take your case to court and represent you at trial. You can rest assured that we’ll do whatever it takes to get you the best possible outcome.
California Leads the Nation in Helmet Laws
California has been a trailblazer in mandatory helmet law implementation. State police collected data from before and after helmets were mandated, and the results were staggering. The number of motorcycle-related fatalities dropped from 523 in 1991 before the law went into effect, to 327 in 1992 after helmets were mandated. Over 100 lives were saved in just that one year, representing a 37% reduction in fatalities due to helmet use.
Motorcycle Crashes
Motorcyclists are at a significantly higher risk of being involved in an accident than regular passenger vehicles due to a number of factors, including less stability, difficult maneuvering, and decreased visibility. Motorcyclists are also more susceptible to roadway hazards and weather ailments.
In addition, motorcycles don’t have the same safety features as standard vehicles. As a result, anything that can help increase safety can help protect riders. Helmets are critical in the event of an accident and significantly decrease the likelihood of fatal injuries.
When Is a Helmet Required?
In the State of California, Section 27802 states that it’s illegal to drive or ride as a passenger without a helmet on any motorcycle, motorized cycle, or motor-operated bicycle on the highways.
California Helmet Specifications
California laws also require that helmets must fit properly, fasten securely, and not demonstrate excessive movement. The helmet worn must, at minimum, meet the Federal Department of Transportation and National Highway Safety guidelines for helmet requirements. These regulations specify that helmets should weigh approximately three pounds and must include chin straps and inner liners.
Motorcycle Crash Injuries
While wearing a helmet significantly decreases the likelihood of fatalities, severe injuries can still occur. Common motorcycle head injuries include:
- Brain contusions
- Broken bones
- Road rash
- Limb loss
- Burns
- Hemorrhages or hematomas
- Fractures
- Traumatic brain injuries
Penalties For Not Wearing a Helmet in California
Individuals who choose to drive or ride on a motorcycle without a helmet in California face a fine of up to $250 and one year of probation. If the extent of your injuries is exacerbated due to failure to wear a helmet, you may be limited in the amount of damages you can recover.
Contact Our Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Law Firm For Help Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in California, reach out to our skilled Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyers at M&Y Personal Injury Lawyers to understand helmet laws in California and whether they apply in your case.
You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, emotional distress, pain & suffering, and more. Don’t wait — California only allows two years for injury victims to bring their cases forward. Give our legal team a call today for a free case evaluation so you can get your claim started.
Related California Motorcycle Laws Information
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