Colorado Motorcycle Helmet Law

Although many motorcyclists prefer motorcycles to cars and trucks because they get a feeling of freedom, there are extra risks involved due to the lesser number of safety features, and the fact that motorcycles are sometimes hard for drivers of cars and trucks to see. Motorcycles represent less than 5% of registered vehicles in the United States and less than 1% of vehicle miles traveled, yet motorcyclists represent over 10% of traffic fatalities annually. Of course, there are several contributing factors to this, but according there is strong evidence that helmet use can significantly impact these numbers.

Not every state has motorcycle helmet laws, and in fact the majority of states, including Colorado, do not have universal helmet laws, although several states have seen dramatic drops in motorcyclist fatalities immediately after enacting helmet laws, and some other states have seen those numbers rise dramatically immediately after abolishing universal helmet laws.

Colorado was in fact one of the earliest states to enact universal helmet laws, but it did this because of a 1967 Federal law that tied federal highway funds to helmet laws. When that law was abolished, so was Colorado’s universal helmet law. Today, Colorado’s helmet law has the following stipulations:

• Riders and aged 17 and younger must wear a helmet.

• Helmets may have speakers

• All riders must wear eye protection

• Any motorcycle helmets sold in Colorado must be Department of Transportation approved

Regardless of whether helmet laws are in place, many safety experts urge all Colorado motorcyclists to wear helmets. Of course, wearing a helmet does not make a rider invincible. In addition to the helmet, there are several other things a rider can do to increase his or her safety. Wearing leathers, including gloves and boots is helpful, and rider safety courses can help provide motorcyclists with the knowledge and skills that may help keep them out of accidents in the first place. Additionally, many traffic accidents are related to speed, which can make every accident more deadly, particularly for a motorcyclist.

Of course, the unfortunate reality is that accidents happen, and people get hurt. If you or a family member have been injured in a motorcycle accident, your safety is the first priority; make sure you get the medical attention you need. Then it is time to speak with Denver motorcycle accident attorney Keith Fuicelli. Keith has experience protecting the rights of motorcyclists who have been injured on the highway by the negligence of other drivers. He can fight for you rights, and work with your insurance to ensure that you get the best medical care possible. Keith will advocate for you to get the best possible outcome from a bad situation. For more information and a FREE CONSULTATION, contact Keith today at (303)355-7202.