Helmet/Safety Issues

Motorcycle Safety and Your Injury Claim

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Motorcycle Accident Attorney

A helmet is not always required in Pennsylvania for motorcycle operators 21 or older. However, a helmet and other safety gear offer protection against the severe head injuries associated with motorcycle crashes.

The Mayro Law Firm is concerned about your personal safety and committed to your legal rights. If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, regardless of whether you were wearing a helmet, our lawyers will do everything in our power to hold the responsible parties accountable. My Philadelphia law firm represents clients throughout the Philly Metro area. Call 215-574-1220 for a free consultation.

Pennsylvania's Motorcycle Safety and Helmet Laws

Pennsylvania repealed its helmet law in 2003. The new law requires anyone who operates or rides on a motorcycle to wear approved protective headgear, unless:

• You are age 21 or older and you have held a valid motorcycle license for two years
• You are at least 21 and have completed a motorcycle rider safety course approved by PennDOT or the Motorcycle Safety Foundation
• You are on a three-wheeled motorcycle with an enclosed cab

Otherwise, riders of any age operating on a learner's permit must wear a helmet, and all riders and passengers under 21 must wear a helmet.

Pennsylvania law also requires protective eyewear (a helmet face shield or shatter-proof glasses) to deflect bugs, wind and road debris.

Though not required, leather clothing, gloves and boots will help to minimize road rash, burns and other injuries suffered in motorcycle accidents. Helmet use has been shown to reduce fatalities and prevent or limit catastrophic head injuries.

Helmet Use and Personal Injury Claims

A jury can reduce your compensation by the percentage of fault attributed to you. Even if you did nothing to cause the accident, failing to wear a helmet may be construed as comparative negligence under Pennsylvania law, especially if you are required under state law to wear one. If the other party is trying to reduce your damages by blaming you, I will aggressively counter their arguments in negotiations or at trial.

I have practiced personal injury law for over 27 years. To discuss your rights, the laws, and the circumstances of your motorcycle accident, contact The Mayro Law Firm at 215-574-1220 for a free initial consultation. You can call 24 hours a day, and I can make home and hospital visits.