An accident involving a motorcycle, a passenger car, and a pickup truck Wednesday afternoon near Bloomfield Hills, MI, left the motorcyclist seriously injured, according to news reports. The accident occurred when the eastbound motorcyclist struck a car that was attempting to turn into a shopping plaza from the westbound lanes.
The motorcyclist was wearing a helmet. However, it came loose upon impact, leaving the man with numerous fractures and head trauma. He was airlifted to a local hospital.
Michigan Helmet Law
According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), helmets are by far the single most effective method to prevent motorcyclist fatalities. In fact, the GHSA reports when worn, helmets prevent 37% of motorcycle operator fatal injuries in a crash and 41% of passenger fatal injuries. Helmets also prevent 13 percent of serious injuries and 8 percent of minor injuries to riders and passengers.
The GHSA reports that a universal helmet law is one way to encourage bikers to don a helmet when riding. Unfortunately, Michigan is one of 31 states that do not have a universal helmet law. Although Michigan just repealed its law in April this year. Michigan is one of seven states that have repealed the state’s helmet law. Motorcyclists in Michigan who want to ride without a helmet must be 21-years-old and have passed a motorcycle safety course within the past two years.
The GHSA found that when state helmet laws were repealed, motorcyclist fatalities increased significantly. In PA for example, which repealed its helmet law in 2003, helmet usage decreased from 82% to 58%, with the death rate from head injuries rising by 66%, and the number of riders hospitalized for head injuries increasing by 43%.
According to the Christian Science Monitor, Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder (R) cited his decision to repeal the law as one of individual liberty. “While many motorcyclists will continue to wear helmets, those who choose not to deserve the latitude to make their own informed judgment.”
Motorcycle advocates in the state, according to the article, say “the change is necessary to boost tourism and that personal safety should be a matter of choice for each rider.” Further, insurance companies could see an increase in income with motorcyclists required to carry at least an additional $20,000 in medical insurance.
Our MI motorcycle accident attorneys recognize helmet usage is now a personal choice in our state; however, we encourage MI motorcyclists to wear a helmet regardless of the law. Statistics show helmets can save your life.
The motorcycle accident lawyers at The Michigan Injury Lawyers P.C. have extensive knowledge of what evidence needs to be collected and what arguments need to be made in motorcycle accident cases. We are committed to securing full compensation for motorcycle accident victims and their families. If there is no recovery in your case, there is no fee for our services.
Call The Michigan Injury Lawyers at 866-601-9468 or contact us online for an evaluation of your claim.