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Every state takes its own approach to regulating motor vehicles—including motorcycles. Some jurisdictions are more lenient when it comes to helmet requirements, while others mandate their use in most situations. North Carolina falls in the latter group, as it requires the use of helmets for all riders regardless of age.
These safety regulations are important, as they can dramatically impact a rider’s health and safety in the event of a crash. When these collisions happen, having the right safety equipment could save a rider’s life, giving them the opportunity to pursue legal action against the at-fault party. Our Rutherfordton motorcycle accident lawyers can help.
Helmets are Mandatory for All Motorcyclists in North Carolina
North Carolina has one of the strongest helmet laws in the country. While many states limit mandatory helmet use to juveniles or do not have any requirements at all, North Carolina mandates helmet use when riding regardless of age. This is true not only for the motorcycle operator but any motorcycle passengers as well.
That said, the consequences for failing to comply are not particularly severe. Under the law, a violation of state helmet requirements can lead to a fine of no more than $25.50. There is no potential for incarceration with this offense.
Additionally, a person’s failure to wear a helmet cannot be used as evidence of contributory negligence if they file a motorcycle accident claim for compensation after the crash. The law prohibits the defendant from arguing that a motorcyclist is partially to blame for their injuries because of their lack of a helmet at the time of the collision.
Each Helmet Must Meet Federal Safety Standards
Not all helmets are accepted in North Carolina. The state requires motorcycle riders to purchase equipment that complies with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 218, which directly applies to motorcycle helmets. This standard has the following requirements:
- Thick inner lining: Arguably the most important requirement under these safety standards is the foam lining. This lining should be approximately one inch thick, although an additional comfort liner is allowed. Helmets without this liner are not compliant.
- DOT sticker: Helmets that comply with federal regulations should have a DOT—short for Department of Transportation—sticker permanently attached to the back.
- Manufacturer’s label: Every helmet must have a label from the manufacturer sewn or glued into the interior. This label must include the name, model number, year, and information about the materials used to construct the helmet.
It is important to note that many novelty helmets are not in compliance with federal guidelines, even when they otherwise meet the requirements. For example, helmets that include spikes, horns, or other decorative items do not qualify.
Motorcycle Helmets Can Save Lives
There are a variety of injuries that can occur in the aftermath of a motorcycle crash, but the most serious generally involve an impact to the head. Traumatic brain injuries can have lasting consequences and even be fatal for some. Helmets greatly reduce the frequency of conditions like concussions and other traumatic brain injuries.
The consequences of head injuries can be serious. They can result in chronic pain, physical disabilities, personality changes, and sleep disturbances. By wearing a helmet, it is possible to reduce these consequences in the future.
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What Other Safety Gear is Important for Motorcyclists?
Helmets are arguably the most important piece of safety equipment a rider can own, but it is not the only one. Other pieces of protective gear could reduce the risk of serious injuries when an accident happens. Some examples include:
Eye Protection
After your helmet, goggles or face shields are the second-most important piece of safety equipment to protect your eyes. When traveling at high speeds, the wind can make it difficult to keep your eyes open and maintain your vision on the road. This can reduce your reaction time and increase the odds of a crash.
Jackets
Leather jackets are more than just an aesthetic choice for motorcyclists. These thick riding jackets can also protect exposed skin from suffering deep lacerations or road rash when a rider is thrown from their bike. This protection is why many riders wear long-sleeve leather jackets regardless of the weather.
Boots
Sturdy boots can protect you from several hazards. Often, your feet are the first thing that flying debris will strike following a minor crash. Having thick soles can also prevent an injury to the bottoms of your feet should you attempt to stop your bike quickly.
Gloves
Your gloves can help protect your hands from flying debris. During an accident, they can also prevent road rash if you fall from your bike and attempt to catch yourself with your hands.
How Common Are Motorcycle Accidents in North Carolina?
Accidents involving motorcycles are unfortunately common in North Carolina. Although motorcycles are not the most common type of vehicle on the road, they account for a higher percentage of severe injuries. According to the North Carolina Department of Transportation, there are approximately 3,900 motorcycle crashes that happen within the state in a given year. The vast majority of those involve bodily injuries, with roughly 205 deaths at the same time.
Traffic fatalities persist despite the adoption of mandatory helmet laws. However, these numbers could be even more dramatic if the state had not required mandatory helmet use. Wearing a helmet is the most important way to protect yourself from harm in a collision with another motorist.
Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer from Our Firm Today to Learn More
Understanding North Carolina motorcycle helmet laws is important. However, compliance cannot protect from the risk of being injured by a negligent driver.
If you were hurt through no fault of your own, Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC, are here to help. Our motorcycle accident lawyers will help you get the compensation you deserve after thoroughly investigating the facts of your case. Motorcycles are dangerous, but that is not an excuse for negligent drivers who collide with riders. Contact us to discuss your legal options during a free initial consultation.
