A motorcycle ride is a thrilling experience in the open air, especially on Washington’s scenic highways. Unfortunately, that experience also leaves a rider vulnerable to severe injuries in a Snohomish motorcycle accident.
If you plan to ride a motorcycle in Washington, as a resident or visitor, it’s crucial to know the benefits of wearing a helmet and the state’s helmet law requirements for motorcyclists.
Does Washington Have a Universal Helmet Law?
While some states have helmet laws limited to underage riders or no helmet laws at all, Washington is one of 19 states that has a universal helmet law for motorcyclists. Under Washington RCW 46.37.530, the law states the following:
“It is unlawful for any person to operate or ride upon a motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, or moped on a state highway, county road, or city street unless wearing upon his or her head a motorcycle helmet…”
Helmets must comply with Department of Transportation (DOT) standards. A DOT-approved helmet features a permanent DOT sticker on the back.
The universal helmet law applies to all motorcycles, mopeds, and scooters, and goes on to state exceptions only for antique motor-driven motorcycles equipped with seat belts and steering wheels.
Washington’s Department of Licensing allows individuals to apply for exemptions from the motorcycle law on religious grounds.
Understanding the Benefit of Wearing a Helmet Under Washington’s Helmet Law
A DOT-approved helmet has at least an inch of interior padding and a sturdy chin strap with riveted hardware. The padding helps absorb the shock of impact, while the helmet also safeguards the face, neck, and jaw during a crash.
According to the National Safety Council (NSC), wearing a DOT-approved helmet reduces the risk of death by 37% for motorcycle operators and by 41% for motorcycle passengers. The NSA also notes that helmet use nationwide has increased by 9.5% in the last ten years.
Failing to wear a helmet in Washington may result in a fine of $145 to $275, depending on the jurisdiction. Choosing not to wear a motorcycle helmet in Washington also has potential impacts on a personal injury claim after an accident. Finally, receiving a traffic citation for failing to wear a helmet may increase the motorcyclist’s insurance rates.
What Types of Injuries Occur to Helmetless Riders In Washington Motorcycle Accidents?
Motorcyclists are exposed to direct impacts with the road, obstacles, and other vehicles in accidents. A helmet provides an important buffer between the rider’s head and blunt force trauma from impact in a crash. A motorcycle helmet with a visor and chin bar also protects the rider from facial trauma. Failing to wear a DOT-approved helmet in Washington not only causes financial impacts, such as fines and increased insurance rates, but may also result in serious injuries, including the following:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), ranging from mild concussions to catastrophic diffuse axonal injuries
- Facial and dental trauma
- External head injuries, such as lacerations and contusions
- Severe facial abrasions and friction burns (road rash) with permanent scarring or traumatic tattooing from road debris deposited under the skin
- Eye damage or vision loss
A helmet also helps stabilize the neck during an accident, reducing the risk of neck, throat, and spinal cord injuries.
How Can a Washington Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Help Me?
A helmet reduces the risk of death in motorcycle accidents but does not prevent all injuries. If you’ve suffered a motorcycle accident in Washington, the insurance companies are not on your side. Contact the Snohomish personal injury law firm of Wells Trumbull to represent your best interests throughout the process of your claim.