Wearing a motorcycle helmet can substantially reduce the risk of head and neck injuries in an accident. However, many riders across the state choose to ride without their helmets. Whether you’re ready to make a decision about head protection on your motorcycle or you want to determine whether you have the right to file a claim after an accident, take a look at the Lake County motorcycle helmet laws and how they have the potential to impact you.
Whether you were wearing a helmet or not, if you were involved in an accident due to someone else’s negligence, a dedicated motorcycle attorney could help you seek the compensation you deserve.
Individuals Who Must Wear a Helmet
In Lake County, any rider under 21—including both passengers and drivers—must wear a helmet. Riders under 16, in particular, must wear a helmet when operating any motorized vehicle or scooter, even a low-powered one.
Deciding Not to Wear a Helmet
State law does not require riders over the age of 21 to wear a helmet when operating a motorcycle in Lake County if they carry at least $10,000 in medical insurance that will offer protection in the event of a motorcycle accident. When examining Lake County motorcycle helmet laws, it is key for riders to understand this limitation, as failure to carry that insurance can result in fines and penalties.
The Impact of Failure to Wear a Helmet on Motorcycle Accident Claims
Wearing a helmet can substantially reduce the risk of many types of injuries, including traumatic brain injury, neck injury, and injury to the face. Individuals who had on helmets during a motorcycle collision also generally suffered less severe brain injuries than those who chose not to wear a helmet. Understanding Lake County helmet laws is crucial for riders, as these regulations can impact both safety and legal claims after an accident.
However, the lack of a motorcycle helmet does not prevent individuals who suffered a brain injury, neck injury, or facial injury from pursuing compensation for their damages. While the court may rule that the lack of helmet use made the injuries more severe, which could decrease the amount the injured rider can recover, the rider can still pursue compensation through the other driver’s insurance company.
PIP Coverage and Motorcycle Riders
Florida is a no-fault state for car accidents, meaning that most drivers of four-wheeled vehicles must carry personal injury protection (PIP) coverage to legally operate the vehicle. PIP coverage will pay for the initial cost of medical treatment after an accident up to the amount covered by the policy. However, Florida insurers do not offer personal injury protection to motorcycle riders. That coverage will not kick in even if they have it on another vehicle. Understanding Lake County helmet laws is also important, as helmet use can impact injury severity and potential legal claims after an accident.
As a result, individuals injured in a motorcycle accident will need to pursue compensation from the liable driver’s insurance company rather than having their own coverage to use after an accident.
Talk to a Lawyer About Lake County Motorcycle Helmet Laws
Whether you have questions about how to navigate Lake County motorcycle helmet laws or you have suffered an injury in a motorcycle accident and want to know more about your options for compensation, working with a lawyer could help you protect your rights. Reach out to Largey Law Firm today for a free consultation.
