More than 5,000 individuals lost their lives in motorcycle crashes that occurred in the United States in 2020. And another 180,000 suffered injuries that required treatment in emergency rooms. Fortunately, helmets can increase the chances of surviving car crashes and help to minimize the injuries of motorcyclists in Texas and across the country.
Why helmets can make a difference
Research shows that helmets saved more than 1,800 lives back in 2017. However, nearly 750 more motorcyclists could have survived had they worn helmets that year. This is because helmets are 37% effective in saving the lives of riders and 41% effective for passengers.
When it comes to injuries, motorcycle helmets can decrease motorcyclists’ chances of injuring their heads by nearly 70%. Helmets can also reduce the economic costs associated with motorcycle crashes. The United States could save around $1.5 billion each year if every motorcyclist wore a helmet.
An attorney can help
Often, injury-causing or fatal motorcycle crashes in Texas occur as a result of another driver’s negligence, such as speeding or distracted driving. In this situation, an injured motorcyclist may opt to file a personal injury claim against the allegedly at-fault driver, seeking the reimbursement of documented financial damages. Likewise, if a motorcyclist passes away due to another party’s negligence, the motorcyclist’s surviving loved ones may file a wrongful death claim against the driver believed responsible. Successfully litigated claims typically lead to monetary damage awards to cover any accident-related losses, such as hospital bills, loss of wages, burial costs and more.