Nevada has had a motorcycle helmet law on the books since 1972. Most of the state’s active motorcycle riders can hardly remember a time when they weren’t required to wear a helmet. Given that the Nevada state legislature has tried to overturn helmet law more than a half dozen times over the past 50 years, it raises the question: Is wearing a helmet worth it?
Yes, It Is
Many motorcycle riders don’t realize just how much helmets protect them in a crash. As we discussed previously, motorcycle helmets reduce the risk of head and neck injury by about 70%.
Let’s put it into perspective. There are about 4,900 motorcycle fatalities in the U.S. each year. According to a study by the Governors Highway Safety Administration (GHSA), about 800 motorcyclists (1-in-8) may have survived if they were wearing their helmet at the time of the crash. Even more lives could be saved if the majority of riders used reinforced clothing to protect themselves.
Not only do helmets demonstrably reduce injuries, but states with universal helmet law tend to see significantly fewer motorcycle fatalities per capita than states with a partial law or no helmet law at all.
That said, motorcycle riders must use the right helmet, preferably one with a face shield and a DoT (Department of Transportation) sticker on the back. The better coverage your helmet provides, the better your chances of surviving a potentially catastrophic crash.
Personal Injury Lawyers at Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman L.L.P. Help
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you need a personal injury lawyer. The attorneys at Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman L.L.P. can help you understand your legal rights and the steps you may take to pursue maximum compensation. We have successfully recovered millions of dollars in damages for our clients. Talk to us, and we can help you explore your options. Call us today at (775) 227-2280 to schedule a free case consultation or contact our office through our website.