As a responsible motorcyclist, you understand the importance of taking safety precautions on the road. One of the most essential safety measures for motorcyclists is wearing a helmet, though a helmet only goes so far when protecting you from serious injuries.
In Marion, Illinois, there are specific laws regarding helmet requirements that every motorcyclist should be aware of. Following these laws can protect your well-being. You should also understand how helmet use affects injury claims following a crash with another driver.
Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries, and head injuries are among the most common and severe. Wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of head trauma and brain injuries in the event of an accident, but not always. No matter what injuries you suffered, discuss a collision and your injuries with a Marion motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Helmet Requirements for Motorcyclists in Marion, IL
Most states have laws requiring at least certain motorcyclists or passengers to wear helmets. However, Illinois is one of only three states with no helmet laws or requirements for anyone riding a motorcycle.
If you are not wearing a helmet when another driver hits you, they cannot assert you also violated the law. Instead, helmet use should not affect your motorcycle accident claim.
While there are no legal requirements regarding motorcycle helmets in Illinois, wearing one is still a prudent and safe choice for motorcyclists.
How a Helmet Can Protect You
Wearing a helmet while riding a motorcycle is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself from head injuries in the event of an accident. One study reported that helmets have a 67 percent chance of preventing head and brain injuries to motorcyclists.
A helmet acts as a barrier between your head and any potential impact, absorbing and dispersing the force of the impact.
Here are some ways a helmet can protect you:
- Preventing skull fractures: A helmet's hard outer shell and shock-absorbing inner liner can significantly reduce the risk of skull fractures in the event of a crash.
- Reducing the risk of brain injuries: The impact of a motorcycle accident can cause the brain to jolt inside the skull, leading to traumatic brain injuries. A properly fitted helmet with an impact-absorbing liner can help reduce the risk of these injuries by cushioning the head.
- Protecting against road rash: In addition to head injuries, a helmet can also protect against road rash and facial abrasions. The visor or face shield on the helmet acts as a barrier, preventing direct contact between your face and the road surface.
While wearing a helmet cannot guarantee complete protection from injuries, it significantly improves your chances of surviving and minimizing the severity of head injuries. It is essential, however, to keep in mind that helmets do have their limitations.
Helmets Do Not Always Protect From Head Trauma and Brain Injuries
Although helmets are crucial in mitigating the risks associated with motorcycle accidents, they do not offer 100 percent protection against head trauma and brain injuries. Some impacts may exceed the helmet's protective capabilities, especially in high-speed crashes or collisions with heavy vehicles.
Additionally, even if you are wearing a helmet, you may still suffer from a concussion or other traumatic brain injuries. Always seek immediate medical attention after an accident, regardless of whether you believe your helmet absorbed the impact. Symptoms of head injuries may not always be immediately apparent and can worsen over time if left untreated.
If you receive a diagnosis of an injury, always discuss your legal rights to possible compensation with a Marion motorcycle accident attorney.
You Can Hold Negligent Drivers Responsible for Motorcycle Accidents Regardless of Your Helmet Use
While helmet use can help protect motorcyclists in an accident, you can hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions, regardless of whether you wore a helmet. After a motorcycle accident, you may recover compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Filing Insurance Claims Against Negligent Drivers for Motorcycle Accident Injuries
One avenue to seek compensation for motorcycle injuries is filing an insurance claim against the negligent driver responsible for the accident. Doing so can potentially recover damages for your medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and more.
When filing an insurance claim, your motorcycle accident attorney will gather evidence to support your case. This can include photographs of the accident scene, witness statements, police reports, and any medical records documenting your injuries. Having this evidence will strengthen your claim and make it more difficult for the insurance company to deny or undervalue your claim.
Always work with an experienced attorney who handles motorcycle accident claims. The right Marion attorney will guide you through the claims process and seek the compensation you deserve. They will handle all communications with the insurance company, advocating for your best interests and fighting against any attempts to minimize your injuries or the impact of the accident on your life.
Insurance companies are notorious for trying to settle claims quickly and for as little money as possible. They may use tactics such as offering a low initial settlement or pressuring you to accept a settlement before you fully understand the extent of your injuries and damages.
This is why you need a motorcycle accident attorney. They will assess the value of your claim and negotiate with the insurance company to secure a fair settlement that covers all of your past, present, and future expenses related to the accident.
Insurance companies can be particularly difficult if you were not wearing a helmet and suffered a head injury. You need the right legal representation to prove you deserve full compensation despite the decision to wear or not to wear a helmet in Marion.
Consult a Marion Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today
If you suffered injuries in a motorcycle accident in Marion, consult an experienced motorcycle accident attorney. An attorney can help navigate the legal complexities, protect your rights, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Adam B. Lawler
Attorney at Law / Partner
Adam Lawler is the founder of Lawler Brown. Adam is a 2004 graduate of Saint Louis University School of Law. Adam worked for a local firm until founding the Lawler Brown in 2009. Adam’s practice areas focus in Personal Injury, Business, Real Estate, Probate/Trust/Estate Administration and general litigation.
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