Motorcycle accidents can lead to devastating injuries, and wearing proper safety gear, especially helmets, can minimize the damage. If you have suffered an injury in a bike wreck, contact our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys at Clark & Howell for help. We thoroughly understand York motorcycle helmet laws and could provide the legal support you need after a crash.
York operates under a partial helmet law system, meaning not all motorcyclists are required to wear helmets while riding. Below is a summary of state motorcycle helmet laws.
State law mandates that motorcycle operators and passengers under 18 years of age must wear helmets at all times while riding. These helmets must meet the safety standards established by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). Helmet use becomes optional under the law once a rider reaches 18 years old.
Motorcyclists aged 18 or older are not required to wear helmets in the state. This exemption applies to both operators and passengers, making it one of the more relaxed helmet requirements.
However, riders should carefully consider the safety implications of riding without a helmet, as statistics consistently show that helmets reduce the risk of fatal injuries in accidents.
When helmets are required or chosen to be worn, they must comply with federal safety standards. The helmet must be DOT-approved and properly fastened under the chin. Novelty helmets or non-compliant headgear do not satisfy legal requirements for riders under 18.
While state law provides flexibility for adult riders, many insurance policies and safety advocates strongly recommend wearing a helmet, regardless of age. Additionally, riders should be aware that helmet laws vary by state.
If traveling across state lines, motorcyclists must comply with the helmet laws of whatever state they are riding through.
Yes, you can sue for a motorcycle accident if someone’s negligence has led to your injuries, so call Clark & Howell for assistance. We have extensive knowledge of motorcycle helmet laws in York and provide the guidance you need. A few reasons to initiate a lawsuit include the following.
If a motorcycle accident results in severe injuries, such as spinal cord damage or multiple fractures, you may face extensive medical treatment and long-term recovery.
We could file a lawsuit to ensure you are compensated for current and future losses, protecting your right to fair compensation.
You can initiate a lawsuit when the other party denies fault. Filing a lawsuit allows your attorney to gather evidence, call witnesses, and present a strong case in court. A lawyer from our firm could prove negligence, such as unsafe driving or failure to yield, ensuring your claim is not unfairly denied.
Insurance companies often try to settle for less than the full value of your claim. A lawsuit provides us with leverage to negotiate a fair settlement or take the case to court, maximizing your potential recovery.
You can initiate a lawsuit if the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance coverage. We could use the lawsuit to pursue additional avenues for compensation, such as underinsured motorist claims or personal assets.
Violations of safety regulations can demonstrate reckless misconduct on the part of the negligent party. A lawyer from our firm could highlight these violations in court to strengthen your claim and potential for receiving punitive damages.
You may be entitled to compensation after sustaining an injury in a bike crash caused by someone else’s negligence. Even so, you may face resistance from those who may shift blame onto you, such as for not wearing a helmet.
Our accident lawyers are familiar with York motorcycle helmet laws and could advocate for your right to compensation following a crash. Contact Clark & Howell for legal support today.
207-363-5208
207-363-5208