Motorcycle riding offers an unparalleled sense of freedom and adventure. However, the risks that come with it are undeniable.
Texas is one of the most dangerous states for motorcyclists. A motorcyclist is killed in a crash every day in Texas, and about 39% of riders involved in accidents were not wearing a helmet. Many of these deaths could have been avoided with proper helmet use.
Here’s why you should always wear a helmet and how much it improves your chance of survival in a motorcycle crash.
Motorcycle Helmet Statistics and Survival Rates
When it comes to motorcycle safety, the numbers speak for themselves. Per mile traveled, motorcyclists have 24 times more fatalities than car occupants, making them one of the most vulnerable groups on the road.
Wearing a motorcycle helmet reduces your risk of a head injury by 69%, according to the CDC. A helmet can reduce the risk of death in a motorcycle collision by 37% for riders and 41% for passengers.
In states without universal helmet laws, 55% of motorcyclists killed in a recent year were not wearing helmets. This is a stark contrast to the 9% of fatalities in states with universal helmet laws. It’s clear that helmets make a significant difference in survival rates and injury severity, emphasizing the need for consistent and enforced helmet laws across all states.
These statistics are not just numbers; they represent lives saved and families spared from unimaginable grief. The CDC reports that every year, motorcycle helmets save about 1,800 people, but another 800 lives could be saved if all riders wore helmets.
Texas Motorcycle Helmet Laws
Just 17 states and the District of Columbia have universal helmet laws requiring all motorcyclists to wear helmets regardless of age or experience. In Texas, only riders under 21 are required to wear helmets. Riders who are 21 and older can opt out of wearing a helmet if they have completed a motorcycle safety course and have medical insurance that covers motorcycle accidents.
It’s important to note that the Texas helmet law is a secondary enforcement statute. This means that law enforcement officers cannot pull over a rider solely for not wearing a helmet.
While some may see this as a matter of personal freedom, the statistics suggest that helmet use greatly improves survival rates and reduces the severity of injuries. It’s crucial for riders to be aware of these laws and make informed decisions about their safety.
How to Choose an Effective Motorcycle Helmet
A good helmet doesn’t just reduce your risk of serious injury; it’s also comfortable to wear and improves visibility while riding. When choosing a helmet, make sure it fits snugly with even pressure that isn’t too tight. It should not move when you shake your head or obstruct your vision.
Avoid open-face helmets, which provide limited protection. Full-face, modular, and dual sport motorcycle helmets are the most popular options. These styles offer good ventilation with options like integrated face shields or the ability to wear it as a full-face or open-face helmet.
Finally, choose a helmet certified by the Department of Transportation (DOT). You should see a DOT FMVSS No. 218 sticker on the helmet.
Replace your motorcycle helmet after a crash or every five years.
Contact an Experienced San Antonio Motorcycle Accident Attorney If You Were Hurt in a Crash
The statistics are clear: wearing a helmet significantly improves your chances of surviving a motorcycle crash. If you are hurt in an accident, a helmet can mean a less severe head injury than you would have suffered otherwise. Stay safe, ride smart, and always wear your helmet.
Our legal team is committed to promoting motorcycle safety and fighting for injured riders. If you have been injured in a crash, our San Antonio motorcycle accident lawyers are here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation to tell us your story and discuss your options.
Contact An Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in San Antonio, TX
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident in San Antonio, Texas, and need legal help, contact our San Antonio motorcycle accident lawyers at George Salinas Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today. Since most lawyers in this area of the law offer free initial consultations, you can get some preliminary legal advice and learn about your best next steps at no cost to you.
George Salinas Injury Lawyers
6243 I-10 Ste. 955, San Antonio, TX 78201
(210) 225-0909