Killeen Motorcycle Helmet Laws
Motorcycle riders and passengers are more vulnerable to injuries in an accident than those in enclosed vehicles, making specialized protections necessary. Helmets are often considered the most effective way to protect against catastrophic injury, and many riders choose to wear them. Killeen motorcycle helmet laws even require some riders to wear a helmet that meets safety standards outlined by the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Failure to comply with motorcycle helmet laws can have serious consequences, including fines, penalties, and your eligibility for compensation in a personal injury case. Compliance with these regulations is an essential part of your responsibilities as a motorcyclist. Whether you are a first-time motorcycle owner or you were involved in an accident, talking to a motorcycle crash attorney with experience in state law can help you learn how helmet laws apply to your specific situation.
Understanding State Motorcycle Helmet Laws
Motorcyclists and passengers in Killeen are required to abide by state motorcycle helmet laws. Texas Transportation Code § 661.003 requires every rider under the age of 21 to wear a helmet that meets the safety standards created by the Texas Department of Public Safety. Operators and passengers 21 and older are not required to wear a helmet if they can meet one of two exemption requirements. Riders can either complete an approved motorcycle operator training and safety course or purchase health insurance coverage that provides medical benefits for injuries incurred as the result of riding or operating a motorcycle.
Failure to comply with Texas motorcycle laws can result in a fine between $10 and $50. However, law enforcement cannot pull motorcyclists over to determine if they are following helmet laws.
How Your Decision to Wear a Helmet Can Impact a Personal Injury Claim
Riders in Killeen who do not abide by motorcycle helmet laws could face fines and penalties. Yet, many riders do not realize how their failure to protect themselves or their passengers can affect their rights to compensation in an accident.
Texas is an at-fault state, which means each party found to be at fault for an accident will be responsible for compensating the injured party for the amount which they are responsible for. A driver’s negligent behavior might result in an accident that causes injuries to a motorcyclist, allowing the rider to pursue compensation for medical bills and other costs. Yet, the extent of the motorcyclist’s injuries could be related to their decision to ride without a helmet. If a jury decides the motorcyclist’s injuries would have been less severe if the rider had worn a helmet, they can assign a portion of the fault to the rider, decreasing the amount of compensation the rider can recover.
Get Assistance from a Killeen Attorney with Experience Handling Motorcycle Helmet Laws
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident caused by another driver’s actions, you deserve to focus on your health instead of worrying about financial losses. You deserve compensation for costs like medical bills and lost income. However, you are not guaranteed to recover the full amount that covers your losses. Working with a lawyer who has extensive experience with Killeen motorcycle helmet laws can help you get the maximum amount of compensation for your injuries. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case and learn about filing a compensation claim.
