Florida draws motorcyclists from all over the country for the camaraderie and great weather. However, with hot weather, it may be tempting to cut back on wearing protective gear. Following Sarasota motorcycle helmet laws could help ensure that you are well-protected in the event of a wreck.
When you have been hurt in a collision and were not wearing a helmet, a skilled motorcycle accident attorney from Dannheisser Injury Law can help you understand your available compensation options, as the laws surrounding helmets are nuanced. We will work hard to gather the necessary evidence so that you can have a suitable settlement.
Understanding Motorcycle Helmet Laws
Sarasota ordinances do not address motorcycle helmets, which means Florida’s partial helmet law applies to local riders. All riders younger than 21 are required to wear Department of Transportation-approved helmets that significantly reduce the risk of head, neck, and brain injuries because they are designed to absorb energy generated from the impact in a crash.
Additionally, helmets must be fastened securely when in use. Riders 21 and older must wear these helmets, too, but can exempt themselves if they purchase medical insurance coverage of $10,000 or more to pay for injuries incurred in a collision.
Motorcycle Safety Laws
Motorcyclists in Florida are also required to obtain a special endorsement on their driver’s licenses or carry a motorcycle-only driver’s license obtained after taking a basic riding course, according to Florida Statute Section 322.12. All riders, regardless of age or whether they wear a helmet, must wear eye protection to avoid flying debris, insects, and high winds. This protection can be in the form of goggles, face shields attached to helmets, or safety glasses. Our legal team understands that riders can still be injured after taking these precautions, and we are here to walk our clients through every step of the compensation process.
Defining the Role of Negligence
Our attorneys have decades of experience in the courtroom, handling both criminal and civil matters, and are knowledgeable negotiators. When we take on a case, we work toward gathering the necessary evidence to prove a motorist is at fault for a motorcycle accident and also work with insurance adjusters to hammer out a suitable settlement.
Insurance companies often try to accuse the motorcyclist of contributing to the accident. They insist that injuries would not have been as severe if the Sarasota motorcyclist had been wearing a helmet, and they base lowball settlement offers on that assertion. However, adult motorcyclists are not required to wear helmets if they carry medical insurance, and we work to prove that point.
Negligence Statute
Under Florida’s comparative negligence statute, enacted in 2023, the injured motorcyclist cannot be more than 50 percent responsible for an accident. If they are, they are barred from collecting a damages award. However, our well-versed attorneys can examine the specifics of a case and negotiate for the maximum amount of compensation available.
Our Sarasota Attorneys Can Help You Understand Crucial Motorcycle Helmet Laws
Sarasota motorcycle helmet laws are nuanced and can be confusing, but all riders should know and follow them. When you are involved in a wreck, helmets can make a difference, but they are not legally required if you are an adult carrying a minimum of medical insurance.
When you are injured, you need a caring and competent ally to fight for justice and the compensation you deserve. We can make a difference in your life after an accident. Call Dannheisser Injury Law now to set up a consultation.
