Riding a motorcycle can be an exhilarating experience. However, to stay safe while riding, you must take certain precautionary measures. The most important of which is to wear a helmet. As well as endangering your life, failure to adhere to Houston motorcycle helmet laws could leave you facing fines or other penalties.
An experienced motorcycle attorney at Fleming Law Accident & Injury Attorneys can help you interpret state helmet laws and understand how they may affect your claim in the event of an accident. Our team can also help you file legal actions and protect your rights.
Motorcyclists in Houston must adhere to state motorcycle helmet laws. According to these laws, all riders and passengers under 21 must wear a helmet while the motorcycle is operational. All helmets must comply with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 218. Riders aged 21 and above may choose not to wear a helmet, but they must have completed a state-approved motorcycle training course or have a $10,000 minimum motorcycle crash insurance policy.
While there are exceptions to these rules, the general advice to riders is to wear a helmet at all times while operating a motorcycle. Motorcyclists should also avoid wearing novelty helmets as they do not offer sufficient protection in the event of a crash. Instead, riders should wear a helmet displaying the FMVSS No. 218 certification. This certification means the helmet has passed or adheres to federally approved safety ratings.
In Houston, failure to comply with motorcycle helmet regulations can have serious consequences. This is especially true for riders under 21, who may receive a fine or criminal record, as state law classifies these violations as Class C misdemeanors. Disregarding these laws can also affect driving record points, which can increase insurance premiums and lead to driver’s license suspension or withdrawal.
On a personal level, any rider or passenger not wearing a helmet is at risk of catastrophic head injuries in the event of an accident. Without sufficient protection, direct impact with the road surface or vehicle can result in significantly worse head trauma than if you were wearing appropriate safety gear.
Not wearing a helmet during a motorcycle accident can also negatively affect your insurance claim. For instance, if the insurance company determines that your head injuries could have been less severe had you worn a helmet, they may deny your claim or pay a significantly lower settlement.
If you were involved in a motorcycle crash, whether or not you were wearing a helmet can become a focal point for the at-fault driver or insurance company handling your claim. While not wearing a helmet can negatively affect your claim, the experienced legal team at Fleming Law Accident & Injury Attorneys can represent you to help secure the best possible outcome. Our lawyers can help you understand Houston motorcycle helmet laws, how to protect your rights, and file your claim. Contact our office to schedule a case evaluation today.
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