When the threat of winter’s snow and cold is gone, many Portlanders get out their motorcycles and take in the fantastic seaside views. As a motorcycle rider, it is essential to understand the relevant laws, including those surrounding helmet safety.
Motorcycle helmets help prevent head injuries and death, and they are best practice even if you are not required to wear one. That said, not wearing a helmet does not mean that you cannot file a claim in the event of an accident.
Our knowledgeable team at Gideon Asen LLC can explain Portland motorcycle helmet laws and how they relate to your case. Our motorbike crash attorneys can help you pursue the compensation you need.
Motorcycle Helmet Laws Protect Riders
Portland motorcycle helmet regulations are based on state laws, which require riders under 18 to wear protective headgear. Anyone with a learner’s permit or who has only passed their driver’s test within the last year must also wear a helmet. Any riders on the back of a motorbike must have a helmet on if the driver is required to. Underage passengers also must wear helmets.
In Portland, motorcycle helmets must conform to standards outlined in federal law. These standards are in place to protect younger riders and passengers from head injuries. Helmet standards also help to ensure that younger and less-experienced riders are protected should they get into accidents.
The Risks of Not Wearing a Helmet
While motorcycle helmets help prevent serious harm, they do not make riders immune to head injuries. However, helmets can mitigate the damage of crashes. Similarly, failing to use protective headgear can result in a traffic ticket. When someone is hurt in a wreck and files a lawsuit, the court may look at whether the person was wearing a helmet.
Maine follows the modified comparative negligence rule when determining if a defendant owes a plaintiff damages. This means the court cannot award the plaintiff anything if the plaintiff is more than 50 percent at fault for injuries.
State law does not require every motorcycle rider to wear a helmet, so it can be difficult to understand how helmet laws play into fault accusations. Working with an experienced lawyer is critical in these cases. A Portland attorney can explain motorcycle helmet laws in more detail and investigate the facts of a case to determine who is at fault.
Contact An Attorney in Portland With Expansive Knowledge of Motorcycle Helmet Laws
Motorcycle collisions can be dealt with up to six years after the incident. However, much can happen in this time: witnesses leave, evidence is lost, and defendants disappear. It is important to involve an attorney as soon as possible.
When you have been hurt in a motorcycle accident, regardless of where you stand with Portland motorcycle helmet laws, reach out to a seasoned lawyer. If you have a claim, our team at Gideon Asen LLC can help you seek out the compensation you need. Get in touch with us today. Your initial consultation is completely free.
