Greeley Motorcycle Helmet Laws
If you ride a motorcycle, you know that it gives you a sense of freedom that a regular car could never provide. Unfortunately, this freedom comes with some drawbacks. Motorcycles lack a lot of the protections that cars have, such as seatbelts and a sturdy outer frame. Thus, riders are more vulnerable to serious injuries in a crash. Wearing a helmet is an easy way to protect yourself, even if the law does not require it.
If you suffered injuries in a motorcycle accident, riding without a helmet could influence your legal claim for compensation. Our skilled motorbike wreck attorneys at Amy G Injury Firm have extensive knowledge of Greeley motorcycle helmet laws and could help you understand your options and provide advice on the best way to proceed. Contact us today to learn more.
Understanding the State’s Helmet Rule
The specific law on motorcycle helmet use is in the Colorado Revised Statutes § 42-4-1502, which states that everyone on a bike under the age of 18 must wear a protective head covering. In addition, the helmet must meet or exceed federal minimum manufacturing standards, according to 49 Code of Federal Regulations § 571.2718.
These rules notably do not apply to people over 18 years of age, meaning adults do not have to wear a helmet if they are riding their motorcycle by themselves in Greeley. While the law does not require a helmet, we highly recommend using headgear because it is one of the easiest, cheapest, and most effective ways to prevent severe injuries in an accident. Because motorcycles do not have seatbelts or other safety features protecting you from impact, a helmet could prevent you from suffering a traumatic brain injury.
How Does the Helmet Rule Affect an Accident Claim?
Motor vehicle crashes often occur when one driver does not pay attention or drives carelessly. Injured victims then have the right to file a claim to recover compensation from the negligent driver’s insurance to cover things such as hospital bills, lost wages if they are unable to work, and emotional distress.
The state has adopted a form of modified contributory negligence, which is codified in C.R.S. § 13-21-111. Under this system, the law reduces the injured victim’s claim by the percentage of responsibility that person has for the crash. However, if they are more than 50 percent responsible, they cannot recover anything at all.
Motorcycle helmet regulations in Greeley could play a significant role in your claim because of the modified contributory negligence system. Insurers may try to argue that your injuries would not have been as severe if you were wearing head protection and use it as justification for not paying the full value of the claim.
At Amy G Injury Firm, we focus on the negligent driver’s actions and how they resulted in the collision. Our team has the skill and experience to push for a fair settlement with the insurance company or take your case to court if needed.
Contact Us To Learn About Motorcycle Helmet Safety Laws in Greeley
While the law does not require you to wear headgear under Greeley motorcycle helmet laws, not doing so could put your health and safety at risk. Additionally, it may affect your legal rights if you are in an accident.
If you suffered injuries in a motorcycle crash, speak to one of our lawyers to learn more about your options and how we may help you during this difficult time. Contact us at the Amy G Injury Firm today for a free case evaluation with a member of our team.
