Wear A Bike Helmet
Wearing a helmet doesn’t just reduce your risk of a head or traumatic brain injury, it protects you in the event you need to file a personal injury claim due to a driver’s negligence.
PHYSICAL PROTECTION:
According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), wearing a helmet reduces the risk of serious head injuries by 60%.
By creating a protective barrier between your head and the street or sidewalk, a helmet absorbs the impact to dramatically reduce your risk of a skull fracture, concussion, contusion, or other severe – sometimes even fatal – head, brain, or neck injuries.
LEGAL PROTECTION:
In the event that you are hit or clipped by a vehicle and are injured, wearing a helmet strengthens your personal injury claim to combat “contributory negligence.”
Cyclists wearing a helmet show greater responsibility and prove they have complied with recommended or mandated safety measures. This gives them a greater chance of receiving a higher or full compensation.
Cyclists not wearing a helmet can be found partially liable. It can be argued that the lack of a helmet led to worse injuries and therefore, they receive lower compensation because they’re seen as partially responsible.
If you’re ever hit while cycling, immediately treat your injuries but also document the scene as thoroughly as possible. Photograph your bike, your helmet, and any injuries, and gather contact information for potential witnesses who can confirm the at-fault driver. You’ll also want copies of the police report and medical records documenting your injuries.
Then call the personal injury attorneys at Multerer Law Firm at 716-882-8828 so we can help guide you through this process to ensure fair compensation.