Motorcyclists in Denver and Fort Collins must follow the same traffic safety laws as anyone else on the road.
Helmet laws vary from state to state. As of this writing, Fort Collins Injury Attorney Steve Shanahan understands that 20 states and Washington D.C. have helmet laws that extend to everyone. Three states had no helmet law and 27 states – Colorado included – have partial helmet laws. It’s important if you plan to ride in a surrounding state to know what the local rules are.
In Colorado, motorcycle riders who are over the age of 18 are NOT required to wear a helmet. Those under the age of 18 MUST wear a helmet that has been approved by the Department of Transportation.
Some facts for motorcyclists to consider when deciding whether to wear a helmet:
- Helmets have been known to reduce the risk of head injury by nearly 70 percent.
- An un-helmeted rider is about 40 percent more likely to suffer a fatal head injury than someone who is wearing a helmet.
- In Colorado, nearly 70 percent of motorcycle riders who were killed in 2010 weren’t wearing a helmet.
- Head injury is the top cause of death in a motorcycle accident.
- It’s estimated that nearly 2,000 lives are saved annually by motorcycle helmets.
- Helmets are believed to prevent nearly 40 percent of fatal injuries for both motorcycle operators and passengers.
Remember though: The fact that a motorcycle rider wasn’t wearing a helmet does not relieve the at-fault driver of liability.
If you are an adult, it is your choice whether you wear a helmet or not, and it’s perfectly legal in Colorado if you decide not to. Don’t think you can’t seek compensation just because you weren’t wearing one.
Still, motorcyclists may want to consider wearing additional safety gear, to decrease their chances of serious injury in a crash.
- Eye protection. This is going to not only keep the wind from causing your face to become tear-streaked, it’s also going to keep bugs and debris from flying into your eyes. Some helmets have visors that are built-in. Additionally, Colorado state law requires all riders – including passengers – to wear some form of eye protection.
- Gloves. These should be full-fingered, sturdy and well-padded. These will help to protect your hands, including palms, knuckles and fingers in the event of a crash, particularly if you are tossed from your bike.
- Jacket. Having a good riding jacket will help to protect your upper body from abrasion injuries.
- Pants. Motorcycle pants can help to protect your lower body from scrapes and burns in the event of a crash. You should never wear shorts on a motorcycle.
- Boots. Proper footwear can help protect your feet from flying debris, as well as help keep your feet planted firmly on the pegs. You should never wear sandals or flip-flops while riding a motorcycle.
- Bright colors. This will help other drivers see you more easily, and lessen your chances of a Fort Collins motorcycle accident.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a Fort Collins motorcycle accident, you need the experience and dedication of Fort Collins Injury Attorney Steve Shanahan. Consultations are free, and Shanahan isn’t paid unless you win. Justice shouldn’t be left to chance.
Fort Collins Accident Attorney – 970-204-9999 – Free Consultation