Are motorcyclists in Austin required to wear any safety gear?

Austin, TX – Safety gear can be very important for motorcyclists. Those who are on a bike do not have seat belts, air bags, or other safety features to help protect them in the event of an accident. This means that safety gear worn on the body is essentially the only form of protection that a rider can utilize. For this reason, governments in various states have required that motorcyclists use certain forms of safety gear, although exceptions exist and riders should evaluate what level of risk they are comfortable with. If an accident happens, those who have been harmed can speak with a local attorney to see if they should file a lawsuit against the driver responsible.  

Motorcycle helmet laws in Texas

Because head and brain injuries can be life changing, helmets are usually the most important piece of safety equipment for motorcyclists who want to remain safe. However, state law does not always require helmet use by all riders on the roads. 

Those who are under 21 years of age are required to wear helmets while riding a motorcycle without exception. Once a rider reaches 21 and either takes an approved safety course from the government or has sufficient insurance to pay for their medical costs if an accident happens, they may choose to not wear a helmet while on a motorcycle. 

Other equipment is optional

Motorcyclists commonly wear protective eye gear, gloves, jackets, boots, and other types of protective clothing. This type of clothing that covers that entire body can be especially helpful if the rider is ever ejected from their vehicle. However, state law does not impose any requirements that this additional safety gear needs to be worn. An unfortunate consequence of this lack of regulation is that some motorcyclists will be on the road with no safety equipment at all, and they assume the risk of being seriously injured or killed if a crash happens. 

The response to an accident

If a motorcyclist is injured in an accident, they may require extensive treatment. This can include transportation away from the accident scene, a stay in an emergency room or hospital, and a period of recovery that can last weeks, months, or years. These costs may either be covered by the insurance policy in place at the time, or a lawsuit against the driver responsible may be necessary. 

Accident lawyers can assist in Texas

Robson Law Firm helps accident victims in the Austin, Texas area. Their lawyers focus on assisting injured motorcyclists and other people with the process to receive compensation.

USAttorneys.com is a web directory of lawyers all over the country. Anyone who needs a referral to a licensed attorney can call 800-672-3103 to get connected. 

Firm contact info:

Robson Law Firm

1114 Lost Creek Blvd., Suite 440, Austin TX 78746

512-345-8200

robsonlawfirm.com