Some states have recognized the importance of wearing a helmet while riding a motorcycle, and have made it law requiring a helmet while riding a motorcycle. Arizona is not one of them, with the exception of children under the age of 18.
But motorcyclists should wear their helmets at all times—even when just going down their own streets or for a ride around their properties. It’s been proven time and time again; motorcycle helmets save lives. And wearing one could save yours.
Motorcycle Helmet Facts
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has stated that the best way for a motorcyclist to protect himself against fatal injuries is by simply wearing a helmet. Here are a few of the stats they gave:
In 2015, motorcycle helmets saved over 1,700 lives.
In that same year, 740 more lives could have been saved if all motorcyclists were required to wear helmets.
Wearing a helmet reduces the chance of death by 37%.
A helmet reduces the risk of head injury by an impressive 69%.
A motorcyclist wearing a helmet has a much better chance in the event of an accident than one who is not.
Wear a Helmet Everywhere You Go
Some motorcyclists won’t think twice about putting their helmets on before heading out on the highway—they’ll just do it. But those same bikers may not think the helmet necessary when they’re just traveling down the street, to a neighbor’s, or out on their own property.
The problem with this thinking is that other drivers and vehicles are not the only risk to motorcyclists. Obstructions, like small rocks in the road, can cause the biker to lose control of the bike and fall onto the pavement. When this happens, a fragile head is likely to meet the pavement—and a helmet can prevent serious injury when that happens.
Arizona state laws do not currently require adults to wear a motorcycle helmet. While there was a recent bill proposed in legislature that would force them to do so, it was voted down. Bikers still have the choice of wearing a helmet or not for some time to come.
We hope every motorcyclist in Arizona will choose to wear his or her helmet. It really can save lives!
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, and you need compensation for those injuries, contact us: The Husband and Wife Law Team. We’ll review your case with you and fight to make sure your rights are protected.