Motorcycle riders throughout the state of Connecticut are placed at a much higher risk for a traffic collision when compared to the passenger vehicles in which they travel. In fact, a motorcyclist is 35 times more likely to be involved in a fatal auto accident on the road than those traveling in a passenger car. Standard vehicles provide a substantial amount of protection for the occupants inside. Therefore, it is imperative for all motorcyclists to wear proper motorcycle safety equipment.
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) plays an important role in reducing the number of motorcycle accidents and associated injuries each year. Through a variety of awareness programs, the organization hopes to highlight the importance of motorcycle safety equipment. Protective gear is often viewed negatively in the eyes of riders who feel that they do not look the way they would like to. However, Connecticut riders must recognize the enormous value in properly protecting their bodies when traveling on the roads and highways across the state.
Jonathan Perkins Injury Lawyers has dedicated several decades to protecting the rights of all Connecticut motorists. In this time, we have come to understand just what it takes to find success in the courtroom. We combine years of experience, comprehensive legal knowledge, and a passion for the law to place our clients in the best position to win. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, our Hartford personal injury attorneys are prepared to take your case today.
To get started, please complete a Free Case Evaluation form on this page.
TYPES OF MOTORCYCLE SAFETY EQUIPMENT
One of the biggest errors that motorcyclists make occurs before they even sit down on their bike. Far too many bikers prepare for the ride, not the fall. In doing so, they place themselves in an extremely dangerous situation if a collision were to occur, as their protective gear was not planned in terms of preventing head injuries, road rash, and all of the other common motorcycle crash injuries.
From poor weather conditions to passenger vehicle errors, many of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents are outside of the rider’s control. While no motorist is able to plan for unforeseen events, wearing the proper motorcycle safety equipment will greatly reduce the serious consequences that typically come from these types of collisions. As such, all riders must take special note of the following items, as these are the most essential pieces of motorcycle safety equipment.
- Helmets
Connecticut law states that riders ages of 17 and younger are required to wear a helmet. While there is no requirement for adult riders to wear a helmet, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says that those who fail to wear a helmet are 40 percent more likely to die from a head injury in the event of a crash. Connecticut riders are encouraged to purchase a DOT-approved helmet to protect the brain, one of the most important parts of the body. Helmets also provide protection in heavy rains, high winds and load noise which may all affect a driver’s ability to safely navigate the roads.
- Eye Protection
Motorcycle riders are at the mercy of different elements as they travel along the roads and highways of Connecticut. Wearing proper eye protection is essential to protecting the rider’s eyes, and more importantly, for giving them optimal visibility. Flying debris, bugs, rain, strong sunlight, and all sorts of distractions are dealt with much more easily with the use of adequate eye protection. Many helmets come with built-in eye shields. Regardless of how you choose to protect your eyes, it is imperative to improve safety on the roads.
- Jackets, Glove, & Extra Protection
While helmets and eye protection are by and far the most important types of motorcycle safety equipment, wearing the proper jacket and gloves will play a role in preventing some of the most serious and debilitating injuries common to motorcycle accidents. Jackets reduce the likelihood of burns, abrasions, and road rash. Gloves help to protect the fingers, knuckles, and palms in the event of a traffic crash. Finally, using protective pants, ear protection, and sturdy boots will help to keep riders as safe as possible while traveling on Connecticut’s roadways.
INJURED? GET A FREE CONSULTATION WITH OUR LAWYERS
Jonathan Perkins Injury Lawyers has seen a countless number of riders suffer from injuries that may have been prevented had they been wearing the proper motorcycle safety equipment. Moving past the worries of how one may appear, a smart rider cares most about safety. Since many of the most common causes of motorcycle collisions are outside of the driver’s control, it is imperative to protect your body, which is incredibly vulnerable in these situations.
As more and more motorists enter the roadways, adequate safety gear becomes even more critical. If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash, our local Connecticut personal injury attorneys are here for you. With offices located in New Haven, Hartford, and Bridgeport, our skilled legal team is prepared to fight for your maximum compensation. Call us toll-free at 800-PERKINS or complete a Free Case Evaluation form today to learn more about your options.