Posted in Motorcycle Accident on September 4, 2014
Wearing proper safety gear when you’re riding your motorcycle protects you from serious injury and can even safe your life. According to the journal “Accident Analysis and Prevention,” states with universal helmet laws have motorcyclist fatality rates 22 to 33 percent lower on average than states without helmet regulations.
Before you hit the road on your bike, make sure you and your passenger are wearing the appropriate safety gear. This reduces your risk of injury while riding and keeps you in compliance with applicable Colorado state law.
While Colorado law doesn’t require motorcyclists who are at least 18 years of age to wear helmets, this essential piece of safety gear is known to save lives by protecting the head from blunt impact trauma in the event of a crash. Motorcyclists under 18 must wear a helmet anytime they’re operating a bike or riding as a passenger.
Make certain the helmet you chose is approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation, as this ensures it meets rigorous safety standards. In addition to the DOT approval, your helmet should also fit properly to offer maximum protection.
Consider the following points when you’re evaluating the helmet’s fit to ensure it will protect you adequately in the event of an accident:
Unlike helmets, eye protection is required for all motorcyclists and their passengers under Colorado law. According to the Colorado Department of Transportation, acceptable safety eyewear includes eyeglasses or goggles with safety glass or plastic lenses and helmet visors. A bike windshield alone is not considered adequate, because insects or road debris can fly into your face and reduce visibility.
There is no state law that specifies a motorcyclist’s clothing, but what you wear while you’re on your motorcycle can affect your safety. When you’re selecting clothes to wear before heading out on your bike, remember the following tips:
While it may be tempting to forgo safety gear to save time or for comfort reasons, doing so could cost you dearly. Make sure you’re dressed properly every time you take your bike out on the road. Learn more at: www.zanerhardenlaw.com.
For more information please contact Zaner Harden Law, LLP to schedule a free initial consultation with a Denver motorcycle accident lawyer.
Zaner Harden Law, LLP
1610 Wynkoop Street, Suite 120. Denver, CO 80202
(720) 613 9706