The personal injury attorneys at Oklahoma Injury Law Firm want you to stay safe and understand the laws and recommendations for using helmets. Here is a comprehensive guide about this critical safety issue.
Why Are Helmets Important?
Helmets help protect your brain, your most important organ. Motorcycle accidents and bicycle accidents are unfortunately common, but helmets can literally be a lifesaver. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 6,335 motorcyclists were killed in 2023, representing 15% of all traffic fatalities. Another 82,564 were injured that year. Per 100 million vehicle miles traveled in 2023, the fatality rate for motorcyclists was almost 28 times the rate for those in passenger cars.
The NHTSA reports that motorcycle helmets provide the best protection from heat injury for motorcyclists involved in traffic crashes. It also states that universal helmet laws (which is when states require helmet use for all motorcycle riders regardless of age) influence greater helmet use and protect riders. In states without universal helmet laws, 51% of motorcyclists killed in 2023 were not wearing helmets, compared to 10% in states with universal helmet laws.
The NHTSA reports that 1,166 bicyclists were killed in traffic crashes in 2023. Bicyclists represent about 2% of motor vehicle crash deaths each year. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), 2023 recorded the highest number of bicyclist traffic deaths in the United States. Bicyclist deaths have increased 15% since 1975 and by 86% since reaching their lowest point in 2010, according to IIHS statistical data. In most bicycle deaths, the most serious injuries were to the head, highlighting the importance of wearing a bicycle helmet. The IIHS reports that 62% of bicyclists killed in traffic deaths in 2023 were not wearing helmets, but this number could be higher since helmet use was unknown for 23% of cases that year.
Oklahoma Motorcycle Helmet Laws
Oklahoma does not have a universal helmet law. Oklahoma law only requires riders and passengers under 18 to wear a helmet. Still, a helmet is highly recommended for the reasons outlined above.
Oklahoma Bicycle Helmet Laws
Oklahoma does not have a statewide helmet law for any age group for traditional bikes. However, those who are riding electric-assisted bicycles and are under the age of 18 must wear a properly fitted and fastened bicycle helmet that meets the standards of the American National Standards Institute or the Snell Memorial Foundation Standards for protective headgear for use in bicycling, under Oklahoma law.
While there is no statewide law requiring bicycle helmet use in Oklahoma, local ordinances may require their use. For example, Oklahoma City requires all cyclists to wear helmets, and Norman requires minor riders to wear helmets. Safety experts also recommend wearing helmets to prevent serious head injuries in the event of a bike accident.
Contact the Oklahoma Injury Law Firm for Help After an Accident
If you were injured in a motorcycle or bicycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence, contact the Oklahoma Injury Law Firm. We offer a free consultation to discuss your legal rights and options for pursuing compensation.