Helmet Laws for Motorcycle Safety
Massachusetts motorcycle riders are involved in a large number of traffic crashes each year. Combine this with the greater vulnerability of their operators and a serious safety problem is created. Helmet laws in Massachusetts can help ease this problem. They increase the motorcycle safety of motorcyclists and decrease the severity of injuries suffered in motorcycle accidents. In fact, motorcycle helmets serve to reduce the risk of death by 37 percent and reduce the risk of head injury by 69 percent.
Massachusetts Motorcycle Law
The state of Massachusetts has a mandatory helmet law. This Massachusetts helmet law requires all motorcycle riders and passenger (including those riding in a sidecar) to wear helmets that conform to the Registrar of Motor Vehicle standards. Operators must also wear protective eyewear in the form of eyeglasses, goggles, or a face shield if the motorcycle does not have a windshield.
If you are found not to be wearing protective headgear or protective eyewear, a fine for the 1st offense is $35, with a resulting insurance surcharge for six or seven years. For the 2nd offense, the fine ranges from $75 to $100, with another increase in surcharges. Additional potential costs could result for towing the bike from the scene.
Other ways in which the state increases the safety of motorcyclists include:
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Mandatory rider education courses
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Special endorsements on driver licenses
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Reducing the number of impaired motorcyclists
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Increasing motorist awareness of motorcycles
Even if you follow the Massachusetts motorcycle law which requires helmets and you to wear protective eyewear, take educational courses, and adhere to safe operation on the road, you are still more likely to be injured if in an accident while operating a motorcycle than if operating a passenger vehicle. If you are injured while riding a motorcycle and another driver is at fault, you may be entitled to damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Client Reviews
Dennis was extremely helpful and courteous. After he spent time listening to my specific situation, He was able to very concisely explain the process involved while candidly explaining many nuances our laws. I appreciate his time and information. Thank you Dennis. C.Courtney Skinner
Courtney Brown'Trudell
Call the Michael Kelly Injury Lawyers
The motorcycle accident lawyers at Michael Kelly Injury Lawyers are experienced in the area of personal injury and can help you through your claim. Insurance companies will attempt to contact you immediately following the accident in an attempt to get to you before you retain counsel. They will likely attempt to provide you low ball offers and settle your claim without your involving an attorney.
In the event you as a motorcycle rider has been injured in a motorcycle accident, call us today. We would be more than happy to speak to you about the process and provide you a realistic valuation of your claim. Here at Michael Kelly Injury Lawyers, our lawyers work on a contingency fee. Simply said, if we don’t win, we don’t get paid, period.
Do not hesitate to contact the motorcycle accident attorneys at Michael Kelly Injury Lawyers immediately if you have been in a crash. Our experienced personal injury attorneys will give you a quick and thorough analysis of your potential claims and utilize all resources to give you the legal representation you deserve. Fill out the contact us form or call one of our Boston helmet laws attorneys at 1-617-807-0855 for a free consultation today at our Boston law firm.
