California residents own motorcycles for many reasons, from the pleasant weather conditions to the lovely scenery, making them a popular method of transportation and entertainment. Understanding the regulations, such as the helmet requirements, is essential for keeping yourself safe while traveling and avoiding legal trouble.
Compliance with the rules of the road is also essential for recovering compensation after crashes caused by negligent motorists. For more information, speak to an experienced motorcycle collision attorney about Bakersfield motorcycle helmet laws today.
While many riders would rather go without a helmet, studies prove that wearing safety helmets saves lives. Headgear protects the rider’s head by absorbing the impact and energy during crashes and can substantially reduce the risk of fatal head injuries.
Studies show they reduce the risk of traumatic brain injuries by approximately 70 percent while reducing the risk of death by close to 40 percent. California is one of the states following the Universal Motorcycle Helmet Laws, which require all bikers and passengers to wear them. An attorney knowledgeable about the Bakersfield motorcycle helmet regulations could answer specific questions about the laws and requirements during a consultation.
Operating or riding a motorcycle without an approved safety helmet in the state is unlawful. Under the California Vehicle Code § 27803, a safety helmet means bikers and passengers must wear size-appropriate head protection with a strap.
Helmets must meet safety standards and fit the individual’s head securely without excessive movement. State laws prohibit operators or passengers from traveling on state roads, highways, or parking lots without wearing approved safety headgear.
The U.S. government and lawmakers require safety gear to meet the federal safety standards, known as Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 218, which aims to prevent roadway fatalities from motorcycle crashes. Helmets must meet the following guidelines for approval:
Compliance with the motorcycle helmet laws in Bakersfield is essential to prevent severe and life-altering injuries and avoid traffic citations. Stickers certifying DOT standard compliance are on the back of the helmet for quick verification.
Bikers and passengers must wear eye and face protection while traveling on motorcycles and other motorized bikes. The goggles or other eyewear must be sturdy and protect the individual’s eyes during crashes and from flying debris. When riders fail to comply with state safety headgear and eye protection laws, it can result in violations with fines and other penalties.
Some motorcycle enthusiasts argue against wearing helmets for many reasons, but countless studies show that they save lives and substantially reduce the risk of severe and debilitating injuries. But those who fail to comply could sustain worse injuries and receive citations, and it could affect your settlement amount if you sustain head and brain injuries.
When riders fail to comply with the regulation, the defendant may assert they sustained harm because they were not wearing the necessary protective gear. Contact a skilled lawyer for more information about Bakersfield motorcycle helmet laws or if you need help with a case.
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