How Motorcycle Helmets Can Prevent Injuries and Save Lives
Motorcyclists are among the most vulnerable people on the road. This is a given considering how exposed a motorcyclist is while operating their vehicle. During motorcycle accidents, severe injuries may be experienced. The severity is compounded when a motorcyclist is thrown from their vehicle. That's why it's so important for motorcyclists to exercise good judgment and wear a motorcycle helmet while they are on the road. Wearing a motorcycle helmet can save your life, and can even prevent permanent, tragic injuries to your face, head, and brain.
The lawyers of Quick Law Group, PLLC have helped numerous clients in motorcycle accident lawsuits in and around the Kirkland and Redmond area. We'd like to take a moment to consider the importance of motorcycle helmets, and mention other gear that can protect you from suffering catastrophic injuries during a collision.
Studies on Motorcycle Helmet Effectiveness
According to numbers cited by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI), motorcycle helmets are extremely effective at preventing fatalities and protecting motorcyclists from head trauma. The numbers estimate that motorcycle helmets are about 37 percent effective at preventing fatalities from motorcycle accidents, and 67 percent effective in preventing brain injuries from motorcycle accidents.
These numbers are significant as they can literally mean the difference between life and death.
Motorcycle Helmet Laws in the State of Washington
Given the life-saving potential of a motorcycle helmet, the state of Washington has a mandatory helmet law for all drivers and passengers on all motorcycles, mopeds, and motorized scooters. People who violate these laws will be subject to a fine.
Other Gear to Protect Yourself on a Motorcycle
A motorcycle helmet is essential, but it's not the only riding gear that you should consider. While on a motorcycle, be sure to wear jeans and long sleeves. A riding jacket and gloves should be considered as well. These items will help protect you from road rash, a painful injury that occurs when skidding along the roadway or pavement.
In addition to long sleeves and jeans to protect the limbs, riding boots are also a good idea. Boots can help prevent major injuries to the ankles and legs following a crash. All of this protection can prove invaluable during a collision.
Injuries May Still Be Severe
Even though helmets can save lives and riding gear can save your hide, the injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident can still be catastrophic. Broken bones, internal organ injuries, and other sorts of trauma may be sustained. Treating these injuries can be costly, even if you have good health insurance.
If your accident was caused by a negligent person or party, it's important that they be held accountable for these matters, which includes your medical bills, lost wages, and damage to your vehicle. This is where a personal injury lawyer can help.
How an Injury Accident Attorney Can Help
Auto accident litigation can be complicated, requiring a skilled attorney to navigate both state and local laws. During a lawsuit, your attorney will focus on holding the negligent party accountable and seek damages on your behalf. Meanwhile, you can focus on healing and moving forward with your daily life. This peace of mind can prove essential after a major auto accident.
Contact Quick Law Group, PLLC
For more information about your legal rights and options following a serious auto collision or motorcycle crash, we encourage you to contact an experienced accident and injury lawyer today. The legal team at Quick Law Group, PLLC is here to help you in your time of legal need.