Motorcycles are known for their high speeds and loud engines. They are also very dangerous. In fact, the risk of serious injury or death is much higher in motorcycle accidents than in other types of accidents. Colorado motorcyclists must adhere to Colorado traffic laws at all times to avoid accident risks. There are also minimum equipment standards motorcyclists must follow.
What Are Colorado’s Legal Requirements for Motorcycle Helmets?
Colorado’s helmet laws are more relaxed than those of other states. Legal requirements regarding helmet use vary depending on the motorcyclist’s age. For minors under 18, the state requires the use of a Department of Transportation-approved helmet. This helmet requirement extends past motorcycle use and includes the use of autocycles and low-power scooters.
Adult motorcyclists and passengers over 18 years old are not required to wear helmets. However, all riders must wear eye protection. The state’s eye protection requirement reduces the likelihood that a foreign object will strike the rider’s eye, causing irreparable damage. Also, eye protection requirements reduce the chances of motorcyclists causing accidents because of impaired vision following a debris strike to the eye while riding.
Do Helmets Increase Motorcycle Rider Safety?
While not legally required for Colorado adults, helmet use while operating a motorcycle is strongly recommended. Helmet use significantly reduces the chance of death following a motorcycle accident. According to the National Safety Council, Motorcycle helmets are estimated to be 37% effective in preventing fatal injuries to motorcycle operators and 41% effective for motorcycle passengers.
Additionally, motorcycle helmets reduce the chances of a rider suffering a traumatic brain injury following an accident. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, lack of helmet use leads to increased hospital admissions with life-threatening head injuries that require intensive care. Helmet use significantly reduces the severity of head injury, hospitalization duration, morbidity, and mortality. All Colorado motorcyclists should consider this information and make informed choices regarding helmet use.
What Causes Motorcycle Accidents?
There are many causes of motorcycle accidents. Fortunately, many causes can be avoided. Both motorcyclists and drivers of passenger vehicles should be aware of the causes of motorcycle accidents to avoid being involved in one. Some common causes include:
- Distracted Driving: Distracted driving by other motorists is a leading cause of motorcycle accidents. Texting, eating, and talking on the phone while driving prevents motorists from seeing motorcycles on the road.
- Speeding: Speeding is a significant contributing factor in motorcycle accidents. Motorcycles are powerful machines that can travel hundreds of miles per hour. Irresponsible motorcycle speeds decrease reaction time and make it less likely for other motorists to notice motorcycles passing.
- Failure to Yield: When other motorists fail to yield the right of way to motorcycles, the results can be deadly. Even accidents that would be considered minor if between two passenger vehicles could have devastating effects on motorcyclists who lack adequate protection from their vehicle
Because even minor motorcycle accidents can be deadly, all drivers should understand the common causes of motorcycle accidents and how to avoid causing them. Looking twice before you merge, avoiding high speeds, and staying alert while driving can save lives.
Colorado Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
Dulin McQuinn Young is a trial-tested firm known for its successful settlements and record-breaking jury verdicts. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, it’s essential to get dedicated legal help fast from a Denver motorcycle accident lawyer. Contact us today to learn more about your legal options. We’ll get back to you within 24 hours to discuss your case.