6 reasons to wear a helmet on a motorcycle
Motor Vehicles Accidents - July 22, 2024 by Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates
Riding a motorcycle without a helmet is tempting. There is a sense of freedom that comes with a direct connection to the elements. That freedom comes at a high cost, however, if you are involved in an accident. Motorcycle riders are especially vulnerable to life-changing and life-ending head injuries upon collision with the ground, another vehicle, or another object. The best advice Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates has for riders is to wear a helmet–and if you are involved in an accident, get help from a Chicago motorcycle accident attorney from our team.
No, Illinois does not require helmets. Yes, you should still wear one.
An Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) state-by-state breakdown of motorcycle laws shows Illinois has no law mandating that bikers wear helmets. Some states require helmets for minors only, but in Illinois, even minors are exempt. While you won’t be charged with a violation for riding helmet-free, you can sustain serious injury or death without one–and those consequences cost a lot more than a ticket fee.
Fatality reduction
According to the Centers for Disease Control, motorcycle helmets save roughly 1,500 lives annually. That number does not sound very high unless your family is one of the 1,500. Additionally, life is very precious. If preserving a motorcycle rider’s life is uncomfortable, inconvenient, or statistically uncertain, that risk is worth taking.
On a related note, some people think that if they were hurt in a wreck and not wearing a helmet, they have no claim for compensation. That’s not always true. So, speaking with a Chicago motorcycle crash lawyer about your rights is always important.
Helmets protect your eyes…
Motorcycle helmets usually include plastic faceguards. These shields keep the sun from damaging your retina and impairing your vision, bugs off your face, and wind out of your eyes. Moreover, the face guard serves as a protective crumple zone for the brain.
…And your brain
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recognizes helmet use as an effective way to reduce incidents of traumatic brain injury. The IIHS cites research stating helmeted riders are three times more likely than helmet-free riders to sustain a serious brain injury when involved in a crash.
Brain injuries can leave you with physical and cognitive disabilities and potential changes to your personality and ability to interact with others. The effects can stop your body from functioning properly, preventing you from working, moving through life independently, or–riding your bike again.
Helmets help other drivers see you
Most drivers do not watch for motorcycle riders. Most riders who have gone down probably heard the other driver say something like, “I never even saw you.” Motorcycle helmets, especially brightly-colored helmets, increase visibility.
Helmets protect you from road debris…
Loose gravel, garbage, dirt, tree branches, or anything littering the road poses dangers to riders. As you ride, these objects can fly up, hitting your head or face. You don’t have to be in an accident to benefit from helmet use. Your exposed face and head are vulnerable to damage by whatever debris you ride through. A helmet keeps your teeth, eyes, and the rest of your head protected.
…And the weather
Helmets protect you from the dangers that come with exposure to natural elements. In cold weather, a helmet keeps your head warm and dry. The ears, nose, and face are especially susceptible to frostbite when exposed to cold temperatures or icy precipitation.
The sun might feel good on your face for a while, but as an unhelmeted rider, you increase your risk for sunburn. The skin of the scalp and face is delicate and easily damaged. Helmets also help reduce sun glare, keeping your road visibility sharp and alert to any unexpected road obstructions or hazardous debris.
Reach out to our dedicated lawyers today
At Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates, we do whatever it takes, including filing legal actions, to protect motorcycle riders. Call (800) 985-1819 today for a free consultation with one of our experienced Chicago personal injury attorneys. We do not charge upfront legal fees in injury cases.
