Jill Kolodner | September 13, 2024 | Motorcycle Accidents
Helmet laws in Maryland can seem a bit tricky. However, helmets are considered to be one of the safest pieces of gear for motorcyclists and bicyclists. They are known to decrease the chances of suffering a traumatic brain injury or head injury.
According to the National Institute of Health, bicycle helmets reduce head injuries by 48%, traumatic brain injuries by 53%, and severe head injuries by 60%. Although helmets protect both motorcyclists and bicyclists, Forbes magazine recently published an article that found helmet use decreased since the 2000s.
Not wearing the helmet could lead to substantial injuries, sometimes even death. Maryland has created a set of laws for motorcyclists on the road to prevent substantial injuries.
Marilyn’s Helmet Laws
According to Section 21-1306 of Maryland’s Transportation Articles, all motorcyclists operating a motorcycle on the road must wear a helmet. The helmet must conform to the Motor Vehicle Administration. Besides a helmet, motorcyclists are also required to wear eye gear to protect a motorcyclist’s eyes from any debris.
What Should I Look For In A Motorcycle Helmet In Maryland?
The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration has a set of regulations on approving and classifying helmets that motorcyclists can wear. Below are some factors you should consider when choosing your Maryland motorcycle helmet:
- Strong outer shell: Helmets made of carbon fiber, fiberglass, or thermoplastic resist impacts and bad weather. Choosing the right helmet could prevent a traumatic brain injury.
- Liner: Make sure you get a helmet with an impact-absorbing liner, usually made of styrofoam.
- Chin strap: A chin strap is meant to hold the helmet on the rider’s head in place in the event of a collision. Sometimes, motorcyclists wear helmets that do not have properly sized chin straps.
Choosing the right motorcycle helmet is very important. qualifications are met, you can choose from several helmets, depending on your preferences. For example, there are different-shaped helmets that could vary depending on your taste.
What Other Gear Can I Wear To Prevent Suffering Injuries In A Motorcycle Accident?
The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration also offers optional motorcycle safety gear that a motorcyclist could wear to prevent any further injuries. Below are some examples of gear that is suggested:
- Gloves: Gloves are a great way for a motorcyclist to have a strong grip. This prevents a motorcyclist from having slippery hands and losing control of the motorcycle. The motorcycle gloves should be fully fingered and made of leather or synthetic leather. This material is thick enough to prevent any road rash in an accident.
- Jacket: A long sleeve or jacket is recommended to prevent any road rash, hand or like injuries in the event of an accident. Jackets also protect motorcyclists from bad weather in Maryland. The motor vehicle administration recommends a thermal
- Boots: Thick, non-slip boots are preferred. They prevent slipping and losing control of the motorcycle.
- Pants: Motorcyclists should wear fitted pants, such as motorcycle jeans. They will prevent an uncomfortable ride.
Above are some suggestions of apparel and accessories a motorcyclist could wear to prevent serious injuries. Keep in mind that they should all be properly fitted.
Could I Get Cited For Not Wearing A Helmet?
Under Section 21-1306, a motorcyclist could face big fines for not wearing an approved helmet or eyewear. In some cases, failing to wear a helmet could lead to contributory negligence. Maryland’s contributory negligence law means that you may not recover if you are found to be negligent at all.
Contact a Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer at WGK Personal Injury Lawyers Today For Help
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident in Maryland, you could recover compensation for your injuries. Maryland’s strict contributory negligence laws mean that you may not recover if you are found to be negligent, so it is critical you speak to an attorney to shield yourself from unfounded blame. Contact an experienced motorcycle attorney with WGK Personal Injury Lawyers to discuss your accident.
WGK Personal Injury Lawyers
14 W Madison St, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States
(410) 837-2144
WGK Personal Injury Lawyers – Dundalk Office
7329 Holabird Ave Suite 3, Dundalk, MD 21222
By appointment only
(410) 970-3080
