Are Motorcyclists Required to Wear a Helmet in Indiana?

Are Motorcyclists Required to Wear a Helmet in Indiana?

If you regularly ride a motorcycle in Indiana, you might wonder at times, “Am I legally required to wear a helmet?” The answer depends on your age. Indiana law mandates that anyone under the age of 18 riding or operating a motorcycle wear both a helmet and protective eyewear. However, adults older than 18 are not legally required to wear a helmet. While the law provides certain freedoms, the choice to not wear a helmet can nevertheless significantly impact your safety and even your legal standing in the event of a motorcycle accident.

Indiana’s Motorcycle Helmet Law at a Glance

Indiana’s helmet law is defined under Indiana Code § 9-19-7-1. This law requires that motorcycle riders and operators under age 18 must:

• Wear a helmet that meets U.S. Department of Transportation standards.
• Use protective eyewear, such as goggles or face shields.

For riders over the age of 18, using helmets and eyewear is recommended, but not required. This helmet law is primarily meant to help save lives and reduce the occurrence of traumatic brain injuries, especially among young people.

How Helmet Use Impacts Personal Injury Claims

While the law doesn’t mandate helmets for adults, not wearing one can still complicate matters in a personal injury claim. This may come about through:

• Arguments of Perceived Negligence: If you’re injured in a motorcycle accident but weren’t wearing a helmet, an insurance company may argue you’re partly at fault for your injuries—even if the accident wasn’t your fault.
• Reduced Compensation: Indiana follows a modified comparative negligence system, meaning your compensation can be reduced if you’re deemed partially responsible for your injuries. Not wearing a helmet could be part of an argument for partial responsibility.

These reasons, among others, demonstrate why it’s crucial to consult a skilled personal injury attorney to help safeguard your rights and fight against potentially biased claims.

How an Experienced Attorney Can Help

Understanding the intricacies of Indiana law and its implications on personal injury claims is no simple task. When you’re faced with an insurance company trying to undervalue your claim on top of that, partnering with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney becomes essential. Worthley Law has years of experience assisting individuals with claims arising from motorcycle accidents and other personal injury cases. From gathering evidence and building a strong case to negotiating with insurance companies, we allow you to focus on recovery while we handle the legal demands.

When It Comes to Helmet Use and Personal Injury Attorneys, Choose Wisely

While Indiana’s helmet law does allow riders over 18 the option to ride without one, the decision comes with both safety and legal consequences. Wearing a helmet isn’t just about complying with the law; it helps protect your life and can ensure you’re in the best possible position should a legal dispute arise after an accident.

If you find yourself in a motorcycle accident, with or without a helmet, don’t hesitate to reach out to the team at Worthley Law. We’re ready to stand behind you and advocate for the justice you deserve.