Are motorcycle riders required to wear helmets in Virginia?

We teach our children the importance of wearing helmets from a young age. However, as people grow older and become more confident in their riding abilities, they may think of helmets as an unnecessary precaution.

In particular, some motorcycle riders feel more free or comfortable without these safety devices. However, there is virtually nothing protecting the rider from catastrophe should they become involved in an accident. In many instances, a helmet can be the difference between life and death.

While each state has its own laws governing the use of motorcycle helmets, Virginia is one of 18 states in the U.S. to legally require all motorcycle riders wear helmets.

Virginia’s mandatory motorcycle helmet laws

According to Section 46.2-910 of Virginia’s Motor Vehicle Code, any person who is operating a motorcycle is required to wear a protective helmet, as well as have one of the following: a face shield, safety glasses/goggles, or a safety shield on their bike.

The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) also states that motorcycle riders, including operators and passengers, must wear approved motorcycle helmets that meet or exceed the expectations set forth by the Snell Memorial Foundation, the American National Standards Institute, Inc., or the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT).

How helmets can help riders stay safe

Motorcycle helmets are not just a part of state law, they also significantly improve rider safety. Because head injuries are a common cause of motorcycle accident-related fatalities, these safety devices are crucial. Statistics from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) show that helmets are:

• 37% effective at preventing motorcycle deaths
• 67% effective at preventing brain injuries

Injured in a motorcycle accident?

At Huffman & Huffman Brothers-in-Law, PLLC, our legal team knows all too well that insurance companies are biased against motorcycle riders. Oftentimes, they will try to reduce their own liability in the accident by claiming that you were riding negligently and caused your own injuries.

If your motorcycle crash was caused due to a negligent or reckless driver, you deserve to be properly compensated for your physical and emotional injuries. Whether you were wearing a helmet or not at the time of the accident does not matter. Our team is ready to protect your rights and fight for your recovery so you can focus on healing.

Contact our Newport News motorcycle accident attorneys at (757) 599-6050 to get started with a free consultation!