Riding a bike is a great form of exercise and a convenient mode of transportation, but there are also serious risks to consider. It is wise to avoid unnecessary risks in any activity, and cycling is no exception.
To reduce the risk of life-threatening injuries, the State of California has adopted specific safety requirements for wearing a helmet while cycling. If you suffered harm in a bike crash through no fault of your own, an experienced attorney at Valero Law Group can advise you on how Fresno bicycle helmet laws might impact your case.
Understanding Helmet Requirements
In Fresno, there are no laws governing wearing a bike helmet for adult riders. Once a person reaches the age of 18, they have the right to choose whether to wear a helmet while cycling. The same is not true for cyclists under the age of 18. Juveniles must wear a helmet while riding a bike at all times. These rules apply not only on public roadways but also on sidewalks.
The penalty for a violation of the helmet law is $25 per offense. The courts generally allow parents to provide proof they have purchased a helmet in lieu of paying the fine. Contact our office to learn more about bicycle helmet laws.
Why Helmets Are Important for Safety
Required or not, cyclists benefit greatly from wearing helmets anytime they ride. Helmets save lives by reducing the risk of brain trauma in a collision. They are designed to absorb impact, whether it comes from a moving vehicle or the pavement.
A helmet can protect against many serious potential injuries. In addition to the risk of traumatic brain injuries, they can also lower the chances of skull fractures and other broken bones. Even in cases where injuries occur, the proper safety gear can reduce the severity of the condition. Understanding and complying with bike helmet laws in Fresno can be a life-saving decision.
Legal Implications of Not Wearing a Helmet
Besides the safety reasons for using this important piece of equipment, there are also legal considerations for wearing a helmet. The law might not require riders to wear one, but failure to do so can have an impact on the outcome of a personal injury case.
California has adopted a legal standard known as comparative negligence. Under this standard, a jury will consider the actions of all parties when determining who was at fault for a bike accident. This includes considering actions that could have lessened or prevented injuries from occurring.
Given that helmets can limit the severity of a head injury, the refusal to wear one can have an impact on the compensation recovered in a civil suit. If a jury determines that a cyclist’s injuries were more severe because they did not have a helmet on at the time of the crash, they can award less than the full value of the claim to the plaintiff. Complying with bicycle helmet laws in Fresno can improve the recovery in these cases. Connect with our team to learn more.
Contact Valero Law Group To Learn About Bicycle Helmet Laws in Fresno
Following Fresno bicycle helmet laws is only one of the ways you can reduce the risk of a serious injury while cycling. Unfortunately, accidents can still happen despite your best efforts to stay safe. If you suffered harm in a bike crash, talk to an experienced attorney who can help you explore your legal options.
The right legal counsel can evaluate your case and determine your chances of success. They can also answer questions on how helmet laws might impact your recovery. Call Valero Law Group today to learn about your legal options.
