7 Reasons to Wear a Motorcycle Helmet

Most motorcyclists will describe riding on the open road as the ultimate expression of freedom. You get a charge from the wind rushing against you as you ride. Of course, as a motorcyclist, you also have to have special skills to operate a bike safely. There are also specific laws that motorcyclists must follow, including helmet laws. Each state can dictate its own laws regarding motorcycle helmets. In Montana, any motorcycle rider or passenger under the age of 18 is required to wear a helmet. There is no law requiring riders over 18 to wear a helmet. However, many motorcyclists opt to use a helmet. They recognize that getting into a motorcycle accident can be especially devastating. If you’re not convinced, consider these seven reasons to wear a motorcycle helmet.

1. Helmets Save Lives

The primary reason for wearing a motorcycle helmet is to save your life. That is not just hyperbole, but a fact. According to data collected by the Advocates for Highway & Auto Safety, wearing a motorcycle helmet reduces the risk by 42%. Even though you might be a responsible rider, you can’t control the actions of other drivers. One “tap” by a car can send you reeling and crashing. A helmet can help keep you alive.

2. Reduce the Risk of Traumatic Brain Injuries

In a motorcycle accident that results in a road impact, your brain is the most vulnerable part of your body. A helmet is designed to absorb the impact and minimize the risk of kinetic energy that would transfer to your head in an accident. That same report stated that helmets reduce the risk of head injuries by 69%.

3. Prevents Facial Injuries

Depending on where you land in an accident, you could suffer from specific facial injuries, such as broken jaws, chipped or lost teeth, and scarring. A helmet with a full-face shield provides a layer of protection and reduces the risk of sustaining facial injuries.

4. Better Vision and Sun Protection

A motorcyclist does not have the protection of a windshield when riding. They can encounter strong winds and sun glare. A helmet with a visor blocks harmful UV rays and minimizes the glare. This helps improve a motorcyclist’s visibility.

5. Protection From Sunburn

Daytime road trips are a popular option for motorcyclists. Unfortunately, prolonged exposure to the sun without a helmet can lead to painful sunburn. If you wear goggles without a helmet, you could have tan lines around your eyes.

6. Shields Your Eyes from Debris

As a motorcyclist, you can encounter a lot of bugs and debris flying up at you. That debris can include gravel and glass that can strike your eyes, leading to serious injury. A helmet with a face shield deflects the debris and keeps you from wiping your eyes while riding.

7. Set a Positive Example

A motorcyclist who wears a helmet recognizes the protection that it provides. Wearing the helmet can set a positive example for other potential riders. It can also be positive for kids who see the helmet and will be encouraged to wear helmets when they ride their bicycles.

Accident Claim Complications Without a Helmet

If you get into an accident while riding a motorcycle without a helmet, your injuries can be compounded. If another driver’s negligence caused that accident, you are entitled to seek compensation for any losses. However, Montana applies the doctrine of comparative negligence to personal injury claims. That means that both parties will be held liable for the accident. Without a helmet, the other driver could claim that your injuries were worse because you didn’t take precautions. That can complicate your claim and is another reason why you should always wear a helmet. If you do get into a motorcycle accident, the attorneys at Western Justice Associates, PLLC, can provide the information you need to make the right decision about pursuing a claim. If we agree to take on your case, we will assume responsibility for communicating with the insurance company and work to help you obtain the maximum benefit you deserve. You can schedule a free consultation to discuss your accident and all the options for moving forward.