North Carolina Motorcycle Helmet Laws

NC Motorcycle Helmet Laws

Motorcyclists are not as well protected from danger as other motorists on the road. That’s why a motorcycle helmets is the best protection that riders have to help avoid fatal injuries in an accident. Helmet laws vary significantly between states, and so it is important to know these laws if you are a frequent rider.

Motorcycle accident attorney Brian Steed Tatum has years of experience in helping injured motorists and their families deal with the devastating consequences of motorcycle accidents. The Tatum Law Firm works for each client to ensure that injured motorists and their families receive the fullest compensation allowed by law.

Helmet Laws in North Carolina

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the National Conference of State Legislatures (2014), 4,612 motorcyclists were killed in motorcycle crashes and 81,000 riders were injured in 2011. That year in North Carolina, 6% of people killed in motorcycle crashes were not wearing helmets. In contrast, in South Carolina, 79% of people killed in similar crashes in 2011 were not wearing helmets. The difference in these two percentages is astounding and the reason is that these two states have different laws.

In 19 states, including North Carolina, and the District of Columbia, universal helmet laws are enforced. Basically, these laws require all motorcyclists and their passengers to wear a helmet. In 28 states, including South Carolina, the helmet laws only require some riders to wear helmets. Generally, these requirements vary but in South Carolina, the laws only require motorcyclists under the age of 21 to wear a helmet. In other states, the helmet law only covers motorcyclists who are 17 and younger. Three states, Illinois, Iowa, and New Hampshire, do not have helmet laws, meaning anyone can operate a motorcycle either wearing or not wearing a helmet.

The fines for violating these helmet laws vary significantly among states. While not all states have universal helmet laws, helmets significantly decrease the chance of death in a motorcycle accident. While any crash involving a motorcycle is dangerous, the protection of a helmet can be the difference between life and death. Head injuries are extremely dangerous, so even though not all states require helmets, they should be worn by motorcyclists everywhere.

Consult an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Attorney

If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a motorcycle accident, it is important to contact an experienced attorney to help you determine you legal rights. The negligence of another driver may make that driver responsible for your losses.

The Tatum Law Firm has years of experience with motorcycle accident cases. Our knowledgeable and experienced motorcycle accident attorney, Brian Steed Tatum, will ensure that your case receives the time and attention it needs in order for you to receive all the compensation you deserve. For a free case evaluation, contact us online or at our office at (704) 307-4350.