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Understanding Colorado’s Helmet Laws
Motorcyclists in Colorado are not required by law to wear a helmet when riding. This law allows riders over the age of 18 to choose whether or not to wear a helmet, as long as they have completed an approved motorcycle safety course or have held a motorcycle license for at least one year. However, there are some exceptions. Read on to learn more.
Helmet Law Exceptions in Colorado
Colorado’s lax helmet laws are not intended for every motorcyclist. Here are the two exceptions to the rule:
- Riders on a learner’s permit must wear a helmet.
- Motorcycle passengers under 18 must wear a DOT-approved helmet.
While ALL riders are encouraged to wear helmets, those who choose to ride helmet-free are putting their lives at risk. Read on to learn more about motorcycle crash statistics and how to stay safe when out for a ride.
Motorcycle Crash Statistics
Even though there is no mandatory helmet law for motorcyclists, riders are encouraged to wear helmets while operating a motorcycle for optimal safety. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA),
- 5,014 motorcyclists were killed in 2019.
- Wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of death in a motorcycle crash by 37%.
- Not wearing a helmet increases the risk of a fatal head injury by 40%.
- It is estimated that helmets saved the lives of 1,872 motorcyclists in 2017.
In 2016, there were nearly 5,000 motorcycle crashes in Colorado. Of those crashes, 452 involved riders who were not wearing helmets. Tragically, 57 of those riders lost their lives. These statistics clearly show that forgoing a helmet has devastating consequences. Although wearing a helmet does not guarantee that you’ll altogether avoid an injury in a motorcycle crash, it significantly reduces your risk of sustaining a fatal injury.
Motorcycle Safety Tips for Riders
The following safety tips can help reduce your risk of being involved in a motorcycle accident. However, even the safest riders can be involved in crashes due to the negligence of other drivers.
- Wear a DOT-compliant helmet every time you ride.
- Obey posted speed limits.
- Make yourself visible by wearing bright colors and using reflective tape.
- Use your headlights, even during the daytime.
- Be aware of your blind spots and avoid riding in the blind spot of other vehicles.
- Give yourself space when following another vehicle, and do not tailgate.
Following these safety tips can help reduce your risk of being involved in a motorcycle accident.
When You Need a Lawyer After a Motorcycle Crash Injury
Motorcycle accidents are one of the most devastating types of traffic crashes. From traumatic brain injuries to spinal cord injuries, the outcome is most often catastrophic. Suppose you have sustained severe injuries that require ongoing medical treatment or have resulted in permanent disability. In that case, we are here to help you seek justice and hold the negligent parties accountable for causing you harm. Speak to an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer today.
Contact Denver Trial Lawyers® a0today at (303) 647-9990 for a free consultation. There are no fees unless we win.
