When it comes to riding a motorcycle, the required safety gear varies dramatically from one state to another. Some jurisdictions have little to no regulations at all for adult riders. Others have adopted universal helmet laws that ensure everyone takes advantage of these life-saving tools.
If you were in an accident, it is helpful to understand Bloomfield motorcycle helmet laws. New Jersey takes the approach of requiring every motorcyclist to comply with this safety regulation. Talk to a dedicated motorcycle accident attorney about how these rules could impact your accident case.
The State’s Universal Helmet Law
Unlike many other states, New Jersey requires all riders to wear a helmet without exception. Known as the universal helmet law, there are no situations where a rider can operate a motorcycle without wearing the appropriate safety gear. These provisions apply to riders and passengers alike.
This strict approach is different from many other states. Some jurisdictions only require young people to wear helmets, making them optional for adult riders. The goal is to dramatically reduce the risk of serious brain injuries.
In Bloomfield, complying with the law means using a motorcycle helmet approved by the Department of Transportation. To meet this requirement, helmets need to fully cover the rider’s head. They also have to include chin straps and contain reflectors on each side.
Helmets are Important Safety Tools
Wearing a helmet while riding on a motorcycle in Bloomfield is a good idea—and the law. While there are many who prefer not to, the evidence that they can save a life during a collision is clear. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), helmets are 37 percent effective for preventing fatal injuries to riders and 41 percent for passengers. They also limit the risk of severe head trauma by 69 percent as well. This is one of the most significant ways to inhibit the potential for life-altering injuries while riding. The CDC also reports that helmets saved 1,872 lives in 2019 alone.
Potential Injuries in a Motorcycle Crash
While injuries are always a possibility when someone goes for a ride, complying with motorcycle helmet laws in Bloomfield can help riders avoid some of the most devastating consequences of a crash.
The most important effect of a helmet in a crash is reducing the risk of brain trauma. There are no seatbelts or airbags on a motorcycle, which means there is little to help soften the blow of an impact. Riders are not only at risk of injury when they are struck by a car, but they can also be hurt when thrown to the ground.
The greatest risk of a serious injury is a rider striking their head on the pavement after they fall. Helmets can absorb most of the impact, preventing concussions or even longer-lasting brain damage.
Helmets can also provide important protection under different circumstances. In addition to protecting the head after a fall, this piece of safety equipment can also shield a rider from debris in a crash. Eye protection is also particularly important, as any debris could not only lead to permanent eye damage but also cause a rider to lose control of their bike.
Talk to an Attorney in Bloomfield About Motorcycle Helmet Laws
Complying with Bloomfield motorcycle helmet laws is important for anyone who intends to operate or ride on a bike. However, this is only one of the first steps towards keeping yourself safe on the roadway. Keeping a watchful eye on other drivers is crucial, as they do not always notice motorcycles until it is too late. If you were hurt in a crash, contact us right away to discuss your legal options.
