ArticlesAlmost half of the country has a universal helmet law in place, including Alabama.
All riders and passengers are obligated to wear a helmet at all times, no matter their age.
Also, Alabama helmet laws set forth specifics on what is an approved helmet.
These include details on the necessary exterior shell, cradle, padding, and chin strap.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) findings indicate that wearing a proper helmet can save thousands of lives every year.
If you were involved in an Alabama motorcycle-related accident, you need a skilled Birmingham motorcycle accident attorney on your side.
Other Alabama Motorcycle Laws
In addition to following Alabama helmet laws, motorcycle riders must adhere to many other important regulations.
Some of these laws include:
- Riders must have a class M endorsement on their driver license to operate a motorcycle;
- Riders must be 16 or older to obtain a class M endorsement;
- Motorcyclists are prohibited from riding between the lanes or between rows of vehicles;
- Riders must be sitting on the regular and permanent seat and cannot carry a passenger unless the motorcycle is designed for two and has the required footpegs;
- Motorcycle riders must wear shoes at all times;
- Riders can’t ride abreast from more than one other motorcycle in the same lane;
- Motorcyclists are prohibited from passing a vehicle in the same lane as the one they are overtaking; and
- Riders cannot carry anything on the motorcycle, like a package, if it prevents them from having both hands on the handlebars.
Motorcyclists are also required to follow the same traffic safety laws as other motorists on the road.
Failure to do so can result in an accident.
What Happens If I Get Caught Not Wearing a Helmet While on a Motorcycle in Alabama?
If you are caught by a police officer while not wearing a helmet, you could receive a fine.
If you are in an accident while not wearing a helmet, you could be severely injured or even die from your injuries.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Alabama
Motorcycle accidents in Birmingham can happen for a variety of reasons.
Some of the most common causes of accidents we see include:
- Tailgating;
- Opening a car door into a motorcycle;
- Speeding;
- Failure to observe the motorcycle rider;
- Changing lanes into the motorcycle;
- Driving under the influence;
- Distracted driving;
- Sudden stops;
- Adverse weather; and
- Road hazards.
Severe to catastrophic injuries are not uncommon in motorcycle accidents.
Some injuries could’ve been reduced or even avoided entirely if the rider was wearing a helmet.
There tends to be a stigma about motorcycle riders. Contrary to what most people think, motorcyclists are not always at fault in an accident.
While following Alabama helmet laws, wearing proper safety gear, and taking motorcycle training can help reduce some accidents, other drivers need to watch for motorcyclists at all times.
Defensive driving can also save lives.
Contact Our Alabama Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Today
If you suffered injuries in a motorcycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence, don’t attempt to pursue an injury claim on your own.
Let an experienced Birmingham motorcycle lawyer assist.
With decades of experience representing clients in Alabama personal injury matters, the attorneys at Fob James Law Firm can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact our office today to schedule a free no-obligation case evaluation.
Fob James
Fob James obtained a B.S., in software engineering from Auburn University and then continued his education by getting his J.D. from Vanderbilt University School of Law. After working for a large regional firm for several years where he obtained awards for both individual and corporate clients, Fob found that his passion was fighting for individuals who have been seriously injured or wronged by others. Fob believes that the jury is the great equalizer to the power and influence that large corporations have in society.