While helmet laws annoy many bikers, the state requires that any motorcyclist wear a head protection while operating on the road. This law is meant to help protect motorcyclists, as they are especially vulnerable in collisions. Helmets help protect a person’s head and brain from traumatic damage and can be lifesaving. Bikers must understand safety laws and follow them to avoid serious injuries.
Knowing the Upper Marlboro motorcycle helmet laws could physically and legally protect you in the event of a crash. Let a qualified motorbike wreck attorney at Gelb & Gelb, P.C. help you after an accident.
Maryland Code § 21-1306 requires that all motorcyclists wear proper head protection. It states that a person must wear protective headgear that meets the standards established by the administrator. The administrator is allowed to approve or disapprove of helmets and eye-protective devices required by the law. They may also adopt standards for the approval of protective headgear.
This law also requires the use of an eye-protective device as well. This may include glasses, a windscreen, or a motorbike that is equipped with a windscreen. The administrator of the state Vehicle Administration may also adopt lists to approve or disapprove of specific eyewear. Roger Gelb, a diligent injury attorney in Upper Marlboro, could help someone further understand the helmet requirements for motorcyclists in the state.
In addition to having a helmet on their head, riders must have a chin strap and fasten it any time the motorcycle is in motion. The neck or chin strap must be secured or it is a violation of the statute. The protective headgear must be worn:
All helmet requirements apply equally to operators and passengers. Knowing these rules can help a biker avoid potential issues like tickets and fines. It will also help keep them safer in case they are in a motorbike collision, as an Upper Marlboro attorney could further explain.
Helmet laws are in place because motorcyclists are uniquely vulnerable to extreme injuries in crashes. Unlike a car, which has the cab to help protect the driver and passengers, motorcyclists are fully exposed to the full brunt of the impact. Helmets have been shown to make a major difference in the extent of injuries suffered in many wrecks.
Interestingly, these laws provide civil protection to bikers who were not wearing protection for their heads at the time of the collision. Evidence that the rider was not wearing protection may not come in as evidence of negligence or contributory negligence in a personal injury case under the statute. An Upper Marlboro attorney could help someone understand this important legal protection that can greatly benefit an injured biker who was not wearing a helmet.
If you know how a helmet may protect you and your case, you may have a better chance at fully recovering from your injuries and from the finances following a crash. A dedicated attorney can help you understand how these laws may impact on your injury case and help you pursue compensation for your case.
Upper Marlboro motorcycle helmet laws are in place for your protection, but you may be entitled to personal injury damages whether you wore it or not. Contact Gelb & Gelb, P.C. today to learn more.