If you ride a motorcycle in New Jersey a major question on your mind is likely “Do I have to wear a helmet?” This question is important to consider as the answer impacts the legality and safety of your riding. Because helmets have proven to be one of the most effective ways of reducing injuries and death in motorcycle accidents, New Jersey state law implements strict regulations for riders. Read on and speak with a Bergen County motorcycle accident lawyer to learn more about your legal responsibilities and obligations.
Do I Have to Wear a Motorcycle Helmet in NJ?
According to New Jersey state law, yes, all motorcyclists are required to wear a helmet while operating a motorcycle. The law states that a person may not operate or ride on a motorcycle unless they are wearing a securely fitted and protective helmet approved by the federal Department of Transportation (DOT). This statute also specifies that the helmet must be an appropriate size for the individual wearing it and it must be equipped with a neck/chin strap and light reflectors on both sides.
Why Do You Need to Wear a Helmet?
Wearing a helmet while operating a motorcycle is required for many reasons, the number one being your health and safety. Because motorcycles do not offer the same protections as cars, any accident can result in more severe injuries and damages. When you drive a car, the metal body of the vehicle along with your seatbelt and airbags shields you from impact with other cars, objects, and the ground. Wearing a helmet while riding on a motorcycle can be the difference between life and death.
If you are involved in an accident on a motorcycle and you fly off of the bike, you will still likely sustain injuries like road burn, lacerations, bruising, broken bones, etc. However, your helmet can protect you from developing a serious TBI (traumatic brain injury). Studies show that wearing a DOT-approved helmet lowers fatalities in motorcycle accidents by 73% and serious injuries by 85%. While some accidents are unavoidable, certain injuries and deaths can be prevented by simply strapping on a helmet.
What Are the Penalties for Not Wearing a Helmet in NJ?
Besides more significant physical injuries, you could incur certain consequences for failing to wear a helmet while on a motorcycle. If you are caught riding without a helmet or with a helmet not approved by the DOT, you can expect to pay $25 fines for each infraction.
While this may not seem like a substantial amount of money, those tickets can add up quickly. Additionally, if you are involved in an accident and it is discovered that you were not wearing a proper helmet, you could face additional penalties, comparative negligence, etc.
For more information on your legal rights and responsibilities as a motorcycle rider, reach out to an experienced attorney at Fietlin, Youngman, Karas & Gerson, LLC today.
