Most of us try to be as safe as possible when driving. After all, the possibility for accidents is very real and the consequences of an accident can be life-altering. This is especially true for motorcyclists. However, even though the risk of an accident and severe injury is high, many would still choose to ride without the proper safety gear. This is why helmet laws were put in place in Connecticut, to keep motorcyclists safe in the event of an accident.
What Are the Motorcycle Helmet Laws in Connecticut?
Motorcycle laws in most states, including Connecticut are divided based on two identifying factors.
The first factor is the coverage of riders and passengers. In some cases all riders and passengers are covered regardless of age. In other cases this is less specific and each state has their own rules regarding who must wear a helmet.
The second factor that determines helmet law in most states is the size of the vehicle in question. In some states particular vehicles with small engines and low speeds, such as mopeds are exempt from the helmet law.
Connecticut enforces a helmet law for all riders aged 17 and younger, but has no restrictions on passengers regardless of age. Additionally, the helmet law in Connecticut covers all vehicles regardless of speed or engine size, this includes mopeds. Helmets are advised to also include eye and face protection according to the state manual on the proper protection when riding a motorcycle.
However federal law mandates that all states must have a helmet law that includes all riders or face loss of funding from several sources. This means that Connecticut and several other states are currently not in compliance with federal mandates.
Do Helmets Reduce the Chance of Serious Head Injury?
Studies have shown that helmets can make a significant difference in not only the number of overall head injuries, but in the chances of serious head and neck injuries as a result of crashes on two-wheeled vehicles.
With the increase in safety laws, the average use of helmets has greatly increased, especially in states with laws for all riders. However, in recent years the number of people using helmets and adhering to these laws has shown a slight decline, which can be directly correlated to more head injuries. This is even the case in Connecticut which has somewhat lax helmet laws.
What to do if You Are in a Motorcycle Accident in Connecticut
The first thing to do if you find yourself in a motorcycle accident and sustaining injuries is to seek medical attention and make sure you are safe and healthy.
Once this is done it’s time to see if you are eligible for compensation for your injuries. You should start by contacting a personal injury attorney so that they can help you go over the facts of your case and determine the nature of the accident and any at-fault parties.
Your motorcycle accident attorney will be able to advise you as to the next steps for your case, including filing an insurance claim, finding witnesses and gathering evidence, and dealing with the other party’s legal team and the settlements that they will try to offer you.
The one thing no one should have to do after they are injured in an accident, is go it alone. Everyone deserves fair and just compensation for their injuries.
