There is nothing quite like the feeling of riding a motorcycle on the open road. Riding motorcycles is a top pastime for many Texas residents, but when an afternoon out ends in tragedy, a rider’s life could be changed forever.
Katy motorcycle helmet laws are designed to protect riders and others on the road from getting hurt, but accidents can still happen. If you have questions about relevant laws, a trusted motorcycle crash lawyer could step in to provide the assistance you need.
What Are Motorcycle Helmet Laws?
Motorcycle helmet laws in Katy require every rider under the age of 21 to wear a helmet at all times. This rule extends to passengers as well. If riders are over the age of 21, they are exempt from the legal requirement as long as they can satisfy the below conditions:
- The rider has completed an approved motorcycle operator training course
- The rider has purchased medical insurance coverage that covers motorcycle accident injuries
While a police officer might not stop a motorcyclist riding without a helmet to be sure they are complying with the law, there are other reasons they could pull the motorcyclist over. If the motorcyclist is pulled over and found violating the law, they could be subject to fines, suspension of driving privileges, and other potential penalties.
Risks of Riding a Motorcycle Without a Helmet
Motorcycle helmet laws in Katy are in place to protect riders both physically and financially should an accident occur. While it is a personal decision, wearing an approved helmet while riding a motorcycle is one of the best ways to reduce harm and head trauma in the case of an accident. Injuries that could result from a motorcycle accident include brain and head trauma, spinal cord problems, whiplash, broken bones and fractures, concussions, bruises, cuts, and lacerations. Riding without a helmet could also cause emotional and mental distress, including PTSD.
Additionally, if a motorcyclist was not wearing a helmet during an accident, the other party could use it against them to avoid liability. For protection in the event of filing a personal injury claim, motorcyclists should always wear a helmet.
How a Lawyer Could Help
Being involved in a motorcycle wreck can be overwhelming and traumatizing. However, when a victim has a lawyer on their side, they can count on solid guidance, steadfast support, and a shoulder to lean on. Whether a motorcyclist was following motorcycle helmet laws or not, a Katy lawyer could build a case that outlines important details of the accident and helps the injured individual get the compensation they deserve.
A lawyer could gather evidence including police reports, witness statements, accident scene photos and videos, and more that shows who was at fault and enables the injured person to recover damages. Any claim can be time-consuming, but a lawyer could help streamline the process.
Contact a Katy Lawyer to Discuss Motorcycle Helmet Laws
Katy motorcycle helmet laws might be straightforward, but if you are involved in an accident, the smallest detail can make a difference. If you have been hurt and need legal representation, the team at Schechter, Shaffer & Harris, LLP could help. Contact us today to learn how we could help you get the maximum amount of compensation for your claim.
