Motorcycle riders face greater risks than drivers of enclosed vehicles, which is why many states require helmets to offset some of that danger. A helmet might not prevent every injury, but it can reduce the risk of serious head trauma in a crash.
If you are unsure how Birmingham motorcycle helmet laws might impact your personal injury case, our firm could help you. Our dedicated motorcycle accident attorneys could explain these rules and advise you on what they mean for your case.
Does the Law Require Helmets for Motorcyclists?
State law requires all motorcycle operators and passengers to wear a helmet while riding on public roads. Some states limit these requirements to younger riders, but our state applies the rule to everyone regardless of age, riding experience, or insurance coverage. Lawmakers refer to this as a universal helmet law.
It is important to remember that not all headgear meets the legal requirement, as it must meet federal safety standards. You cannot satisfy the law by wearing a novelty helmet or other head covering that does not provide meaningful protection. In general, all protective headgear must include a hard outer shell, an impact-absorbing lining, and a strap that keeps it in place while riding.
If you sustained injuries in a motorcycle accident, insurance companies will consider helmet use and whether you followed applicable safety laws when evaluating your personal injury claim. Wearing a helmet that complies with Birmingham's rules for motorcyclists could strengthen your case for compensation.
Penalties for Not Wearing a Helmet
Birmingham has strict motorcycle helmet regulations, and the consequences for violating them can be severe. Many states treat this offense as a minor violation that carries a small fine. Under our state's laws, riding a motorcycle without protective headgear is a misdemeanor, and a conviction will appear on your criminal record.
If the court finds you guilty of riding without a helmet, you could face $100-$500 in fines, 10 days up to 3 months in jail, or a combination of the two, depending on whether it is a first or subsequent conviction. While jail sentences are rare in these cases, even the possibility of incarceration should highlight how seriously police take this issue.
In addition to criminal penalties, not wearing a helmet might harm your personal injury case. The defense could argue that your lack of head protection contributed to the severity of your injuries, giving the court grounds to reduce your damages.
Eye Protection Requirements
State law also addresses eye protection for motorcycle riders. Riders generally have two options: wear protective eyewear or use a motorcycle windshield. Safety experts generally recommend wearing eye protection even when your bike has a windshield. The wind can drive debris such as dust, insects, and gravel into your face without warning, causing you to lose visibility and control of your motorcycle.
Approved motorcycle eye protection typically includes goggles or a face shield attached to a helmet. Ordinary prescription glasses may not always provide sufficient protection against road hazards. While these safety requirements are separate from helmet regulations, you should comply with them every time you ride your motorcycle in Birmingham.
Call Our Birmingham Firm Today About Helmet Laws for Bikers
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident despite wearing your helmet and following all safety requirements, you may have the right to pursue compensation. Contact our firm today to discuss how Birmingham motorcycle helmet laws could impact your injury case.
