Regardless of whether you ultimately choose to wear a helmet while riding your motorcycle in South Carolina, it is crucial to have all the facts about using one. You should be familiar with South Carolina’s motorcycle helmet laws, as some riders must wear helmets and can face traffic charges if caught without them.
The attorneys at Jebaily Law Firm encourage all motorcyclists in South Carolina to be familiar with the state’s helmet laws. Even though wearing a helmet is not required for most riders in the state, studies show that helmets save lives and reduce the risk of traumatic brain injuries in crashes.
South Carolina Motorcycle Helmet Laws
According to South Carolina’s Uniform Act Regulating Traffic on Highways, all motorcycle riders under age 21 must wear a helmet at all times. The helmet must meet safety standards set by the Department of Public Safety, including having a neck or chin strap. When purchasing a helmet, look for a sticker that states that it meets state and federal safety standards.
While you should always obey South Carolina’s motorcycle laws, remember that failing to wear a helmet at the time of an accident does not prevent you from seeking compensation. If another person caused the accident, it does not matter whether you wore a helmet. Our lawyers are ready to stand up to an insurance company that tries to deny or minimize your claim using that as an excuse.
Why Wearing a Helmet Is Important
Even if the law does not mandate wearing a helmet, it is a good idea to wear one anyway. Wearing a motorcycle helmet is important for many reasons, including:
- Helmets save lives. Per mile traveled, motorcyclists, are 28 times more likely to die in a crash than people in passenger cars, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. You must do everything you can to protect yourself from fatal injuries in a crash. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports helmets to reduce the risk of death by 37 percent.
- Helmets provide protection from brain injuries. Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can permanently impact a person’s coordination, ability to move, personality, memory, and other bodily functions. The CDC reports helmets to reduce a person’s chances of suffering a TBI in an accident by 69 percent.
- Helmets protect the face from injuries. Lacerations, road rash, and disfigurement are common injuries in motorcycle accidents. These injuries are physically painful and can cause significant emotional distress. Wearing a helmet can protect the head and face from these injuries.
- Wearing a helmet sets a good example for young riders. Young riders may be more inclined to wear helmets if they see other motorcyclists doing the same.
Contact Our South Carolina Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Today
Jebaily Law Firm can help you seek the compensation you deserve if you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident. Contact our South Carolina motorcycle accident lawyers today for a free case review.
