It is clear that helmets save lives during a motorcycle crash. A report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reveals that 1,772 lives were saved because of motorcycle helmet usage in 2015. Unfortunately, 4,976 people lost their lives in motorcycle crashes. While laws vary somewhat throughout the country, the helmet law in Minnesota is rather lenient because it only applies to riders 17 and younger. The state law extends to motorcycle operators with a learner’s permit.
During 2015, 14 percent of all traffic fatalities were motorcyclists, which include both operators and passengers. A full 40 percent of motorcyclists who died were not wearing a helmet. Federal Highway Administration data shows 8.6 million motorcycles traveled the nation’s roads in 2015. This statistic is up from 8.0 million motorcycles on U.S. roads in 2009.
Motorcycle manufacturers and distributors endorse the Motorcycle Safety Foundation to help improve training, skills, and motorcycle licensing efforts throughout the nation. The organization also advocates for sober riding with protective gear, which includes motorcycle helmets.
When a motorcycle collision occurs, the result could be catastrophic injuries or even death. Law enforcement will typically conduct a full investigation into the cause of a fatal motorcycle crash, and it could be found that the negligence of a person driving another vehicle was the proximate cause of the accident. People who have been injured in motorcycle crashes caused by another driver might consider seeking the advice of a personal injury attorney. It may be advisable to file a lawsuit against the at-fault motorist seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages and other applicable amounts.