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Vital Insights: Should You Remove a Motorcycle Helmet in an Accident in NY?

Writer's picture: Alex MalteseAlex Maltese

Motorcycle helmets play a vital role in preventing serious head injuries during accidents, particularly in states such as New York, where helmet laws require all riders and passengers to wear protective gear.

These motorcycle helmet laws aim to reduce the risk of traumatic brain injuries and fatalities resulting from motorcycle accidents, which account for a significant number of head injuries annually.


Adhering to the helmet laws in New York State is not only essential for safety, but also has implications for personal injury claims in the event of a motorcycle crash.


Moreover, it is important to recognize that helmet technology continuously evolves, making it crucial to replace helmets every five years or when damaged.


Consequently, proper helmet use and compliance with the law in New York can significantly impact the outcome of injury lawsuits and overall road safety for motorcycle riders.


The Crucial Role of Helmets in Motorcycle Accidents

The Crucial Role of Helmets in Motorcycle Accidents


Motorcycle helmets are indispensable in reducing the risk of concussions and other traumatic brain damage for riders in over 45 states, including New York. According to the NHTSA, helmets are 67% effective in reducing traumatic brain injury for riders engaged in crashes.


Therefore, wearing a helmet can mean the difference between life and death, as head injuries are the leading cause of fatalities in motorcycle accidents.


Impact of Helmet Use on Injury Claims


In New York State, motorcycle riders can file an insurance claim or lawsuit against the at-fault driver for compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.


However, the state follows a pure comparative negligence rule, meaning that a rider's compensation may be reduced based on the contribution to their own injuries.


As such, if a rider's failure to wear a helmet is deemed responsible for a certain percentage of their injuries, the compensation will be adjusted accordingly.


Helmets, Comparative Negligence, and Compensation


While not wearing a helmet shouldn't entirely prevent a rider from recovering compensation, it can lead to reduced financial awards due to comparative negligence.


Insurers may argue that a rider's head injury could have been avoided if they had worn a helmet, which could result in lower compensation. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can help navigate these complexities and advocate for fair compensation for the injured rider.


Helmets Save Lives and Prevent Serious Injuries


New York's helmet law is in place to protect riders from severe and potentially deadly head injuries. Wearing a helmet is proven to prevent approximately 37% of fatal head injuries for riders and 42% for passengers.


Additionally, wearing a motorcycle helmet is critical for safety and plays a significant role in personal injury lawsuits and compensation. Abiding by the helmet law in New York State can protect riders from potentially life-threatening injuries and ensure they receive the maximum compensation in an accident.


Should You Remove a Motorcycle Helmet in an Accident in NY?


When involved in a motorcycle accident in New York State, it's crucial to know how to handle the situation, particularly when it comes to the question of whether to remove a motorcycle helmet.


Additionally, New York motorcycle helmet laws are in place to protect riders from traumatic brain injury and other severe consequences. However, in some cases, removing a helmet may be necessary.


Helmet Requirements and Accident Scenarios


New York motorcycle helmet law requires all riders to wear a protective helmet while operating a motorcycle. Wearing helmets significantly reduces the risk of serious head and neck injuries.


Nonetheless, if a rider or someone else is involved in a motorcycle accident in NY, removing the helmet might be necessary if the individual is unconscious or experiencing difficulty breathing.


While New York state law mandates helmet use for all motorcyclists, it's important to proceed with caution when deciding to remove a helmet after an accident.


An improperly removed helmet can potentially exacerbate a neck injury or other harm caused by an accident, particularly if the other driver's negligence played a role in the collision.


Waiting for Professional Help


Suppose one finds themselves in a situation where they are unsure whether to remove a motorcycle helmet after an accident in New York. In that case, it's best to wait for trained medical professionals to arrive at the scene.


These professionals will have the knowledge and experience to safely remove the helmet if necessary, minimizing the risk of causing further harm to the injured rider.


Moreover, in the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, the affected individual must consult an experienced attorney who can help them navigate the complexities of New York motorcycle helmet laws and protect their rights.


Federal Standards and Safety Tips for Motorcycle Helmets and Riders in New York


Understanding the federal standards for motorcycle helmets and following essential safety tips can significantly reduce the risk of traumatic brain damage and other severe injuries in a motorcycle accident.

In New York, adhering to these guidelines can save lives and help ensure that riders are well-prepared for any situation on the road.


The Department of Transportation (DOT) sets federal criteria that helmets must fulfill to get approved for use. Some technical essentials include the following:

  • Each helmet should feature durable and clearly visible labels that anyone can read effortlessly without taking off padding or other fixed components. This needs to display the manufacturer's name, guidelines for the user, distinct size, and manufacturing month and year.

  • Helmets must offer a minimum of 105 degrees of peripheral vision clearance on both sides of their mid-sagittal plane while placed on a testing apparatus in a position that aligns with its designated positioning index.

  • The helmet shell's interior should not contain any rigid projections.

  • Helmets should feature a consistently contoured protective surface covering all areas at or above the test line. It needs to extend from the eye socket's bottom edge through the middle of the ear and encircle the rear of the head.


Essential Motorcycle Safety Tips


Motorcycle riders should consider the following safety tips before and during their trips to minimize the risk of accidents and injuries:

  1. Take a safety course: Joining a safety course can educate riders on road rules and how to manage challenging situations, including unfavorable weather conditions.

  2. Wear protective gear: Wearing appropriate clothing and a DOT-approved helmet can reduce the risk of severe injury and road rash.

  3. Check the weather: Riders should consistently check weather forecasts before setting out, particularly for extended trips, since rain, snow, and ice can produce treacherous conditions.

  4. Obey traffic laws: Riders must follow the same traffic laws as other vehicles, including using turn signals, adhering to speed limits, and yielding when necessary.

  5. Inspect and maintain the motorcycle: Regular inspection and maintenance ensure the bike remains in acceptable working condition. Check brakes, steering, lights, and other parts for any necessary repairs.

  6. Improve visibility: Wearing bright or reflective clothing, using headlights during the day, and taking other measures can increase a rider's visibility to other drivers.

  7. Avoid tailgating: Keeping a safe distance from other vehicles can prevent accidents due to sudden braking.

  8. Pay attention to surroundings: Staying alert and attentive to the environment can help riders avoid potholes, road hazards, and careless drivers.

  9. Carry a first aid kit: Carrying a small first aid kit with essentials, such as disinfecting wipes, bandages, and gauze, can help treat minor injuries. Additionally, carrying emergency equipment, such as a flare gun, can be useful in case of an accident or being stranded in a remote area.

  10. Slow down: Maintaining a safe speed and reducing speed in dangerous conditions can help prevent fatal accidents.

By adhering to federal standards for motorcycle helmets and following these safety tips, riders in New York can significantly reduce the risk of accidents, traumatic brain injuries, and more.


Motorcycle Accident-related Neck Injuries and Their Prevention

Motorcycle Accident-related Neck Injuries and Their Prevention


Neck injuries are another serious consequence of motorcycle accidents. These injuries can range from mild strains to severe spinal cord damage, which may result in permanent disability.


If riders want to minimize the risk of neck injuries, they should take necessary precautions, such as wearing appropriate protective gear and practicing safe riding techniques.


Wearing a motorcycle helmet that offers adequate support for the neck can help protect against severe neck injuries.


In addition, practicing defensive riding techniques, such as maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles and being aware of one's surroundings, can also help prevent accidents that may result in these types of wounds.


By understanding the importance of wearing helmets, complying with the helmet law in New York, and taking preventive measures, motorcycle riders can reduce the risk of traumatic brain and neck injuries and ensure they receive fair compensation in the event of an accident.


Summary


Wearing a helmet is crucial for riders in New York because it can impact the personal injury claim in a motorcycle accident. The Law Office of Carl Maltese can also advise on what happens if you get hit by a motorcycle in NY.


The laws in New York also reduce serious injuries by mandating protective helmets. Complying with the helmet law, practicing safe riding techniques, and seeking a free consultation with an experienced attorney can minimize severe injuries and ensure fair compensation.


Furthermore, by adhering to helmet laws and taking preventive measures, riders protect themselves from life-threatening injuries and maximize compensation possibilities in accidents.


If you've been involved in a motorcycle helmet accident in New York, contact us for a free consultation. Our experienced team is here to assist you with your case and provide the guidance you need during this challenging time.

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