Important Facts You Need to Know About Motorcycle Accidents

Riders were 27 times more likely to be involved in a fatal accident than car and truck drivers in 2014, according to the Insurance Information Institute.

The simple fact is, that riding a motorcycle on the roads can be inherently unsafe. But the odds get even worse when riders do not wear their helmets. That is why Virginia state law requires you to do so.

Virginia law states that all riders must wear a helmet and adequate eye protection, such as a face shield, goggles, or glasses.

In addition to saving your life in a motorcycle accident, it can also save your accident claim.

I Did Not Wear a Helmet; Does That Mean I Was Negligent?

As we mentioned, motorcyclists often get the short end of the stick when it comes to road safety.

In accidents involving a motorcycle, claims adjusters might try to make the case that you were in the wrong, whether it be that you were driving recklessly or that you were not wearing your helmet, which actually led to your injuries.

We know this sounds ludicrous. But the fact remains, that not wearing your helmet can give them further reason to rule against you in a personal injury lawsuit.

Fortunately, however, if you do decide not to wear a helmet while riding your motorcycle, Virginia law states that “failure to wear a face shield, safety glasses or goggles, or protective helmets shall not constitute negligence per se in any civil proceeding.”

Essentially, this means that you are not automatically negligent simply for not wearing a helmet. This is important because under Virginia law if an investigation finds you even one percent at-fault for your injuries, you will be unable to recover compensation for your injuries.

However, if your injuries were related to your lack of helmet use (e.g., traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury), the insurer may be able to use that against you.

Note: We advise once again that you always wear a helmet when riding your motorcycle as it can save your life.

Our Richmond Motorcycle Injury Lawyers Fight for You

Being involved in a motorcycle crash can change your life. The trauma of a motorcycle injury can leave you feeling alone and overwhelmed as you try to get your life back on track. While motorcyclists often get a bad rap for speeding or reckless driving, we know even the safest riders can be injured in an accident. That is why the Virginia personal injury attorneys at Tronfeld West & Durrett are so passionate about helping motorcyclists get the help and compensation they deserve after a traumatic accident.

Whether your accident is due to another driver’s negligence, poorly paved rural roads, construction, or blind spots on the road, we believe you deserve a fair shake at seeking justice for your injuries.

Here at Tronfeld West & Durrett, we have been helping personal injury victims in Virginia for more than 40 years. We were born and raised in Richmond, Virginia and we have been giving back to our community any way we can — including helping its residents fight uphill personal injury battles.

We know the laws surrounding motorcycle accidents and we know how hard it can be for motorcycle injury victims to get the respect they deserve. Preconceived notions against motorcyclists can make it hard to convince an insurer, judge, or jury that you were not at fault.

But with us at your side, you can prove the other driver was 100 percent at fault, and get a settlement that awards you fairly for your medical bills, lost time at work, and damage to your personal property. Discover essential knowledge of unsafe property conditions.

So call us now at 804-358-6741 to set up a free consultation with an experienced Richmond motorcycle accident lawyer. Outside of Virginia? Call us toll-free at 800-321-6741.

Call or text 800-321-6741 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form