Anyone who rides a “bike” now knows that wearing a motorcycle helmet saves lives. Although there are several states that do not require helmets, most states do require that motorcycle riders wear helmets when they are out enjoying the roadways.
I am constantly reminded of a story I have just heard from a friend of mine. He has been riding motorcycles for over 30 years, and rides in all types of weather. He said that he remembers the worst accident he ever had on a motorcycle. It happened around three years ago, and he still has residual pain from that loss. He will retell this story to anyone who will listen, and I believe we can all learn a lesson from his mistake.
My friend’s name is Dovetail (yes, that’s what everyone calls him), and he is in his late 50s. He remembers the accident as if it happened yesterday. He tells the story that he was riding and hit something in the road, such as an uneven pavement or a groove (not an obstacle that he can remember). He recalls just before he realized he was going to fall off of his motorcycle, he felt time began in slow-motion frame. The last thing he recalled thinking was, “wow, this is going to hurt, I’m glad I’m wearing a helmet.” The next thing he knew, he woke up in a hospital bed, unable to remember anything else that happened. But he was alive, and after allowing time to heal a few broken bones, he made a full recovery.
Sure, there are people who refuse to ride with helmets. There are even states that don’t require that helmets be worn by motorcyclists. But think of it this way, a helmet is the best protection your soft head will have against the hard asphalt pavement.
There are many different types of helmets available for motorcycle enthusiasts to choose from today. There are full-face and open-face helmets, as well as half-helmets and flip-up models. There are also specially made helmets for motocross and other off track motorcycle riders. It is extremely important to get fitted properly for a helmet. It should be fitted by a professional to ensure that it is offering the protection that you are paying for and expect from the helmet that you are buying.
There are street motorcycle helmets available in many colors for men, women and children. Also available are specialty helmets such as for riding a scooter, ATV and for snow skiing. There is even a rear view helmet that is just hitting the markets. It offers rear view vision for riders so that they can see behind them as they ride.
Riding a motorcycle is a great sport and a fun hobby. Get the facts regarding helmet use before you take off on the next adventure on the road. And, if you have any questions regarding a motorcycle accident, call us at Ledger & Associates at 1-800-300-0001 or email us at www.ledgerlaw.com. We will get back to you to discuss any claims you feel you may have as a result of your accident.
