To help prevent injuries in motorcycle accidents, Maryland has enacted helmet laws. These regulations are in place to address brain injuries, some of the most common and devastating injuries you can suffer in a crash.
At Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers, we can help you with your motorcycle accident claim if you were in a crash. Our Charles County motorcycle accident lawyers have over 125 years of combined experience and have recovered over $100 million for our clients. Contact our law office in Charles County, MD, at (301) 932-9997 to arrange a free consultation.
In this guide, you can learn more about motorcycle helmet laws in Maryland.
How Alpert Schreyer Can Help After A Motorcycle Accident In Charles County, MD
At Alpert Schreyer, our team of Charles County motorcycle accident attorneys provides services that include:
- An investigation of your accident
- Collection of evidence
- Identification of liable parties
- Calculation of full damages
- Negotiations with insurance companies
- Representation in court, as needed
We have over a century of combined legal experience assisting individuals throughout Charles County, Maryland, who have suffered losses in accidents similar to yours. We understand how traumatic these events can be, and we’re here to make the claim process as simple as possible.
Call our team to schedule a free consultation with one of our Charles County personal injury attorneys.
Maryland Motorcycle Helmet Laws
In Maryland, every person operating or riding a motorcycle is required to wear a helmet, regardless of their age or experience level. The helmet must meet the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) standards.
What Helmets Meet DOT Safety Standards?
Vitally, when choosing a helmet, be certain it has the DOT symbol on the outside back. This ensures the helmet meets the safety requirements.
Helmets can be made of a number of materials, including thermoplastic, polycarbonate, carbon fiber, or even Kevlar. It’s made to prevent penetrating injuries, while also dispersing the force of the initial blow.
Protective Eyewear Is Required
In addition to the helmet, you must also wear protective eyewear. If the motorcycle has a windscreen, you may be exempt from this requirement. Otherwise, you must wear goggles or a face shield. When riding at night, your eyewear cannot be tinted.
You Must Have A Valid License And Insurance
You must also have a valid license, which is a Class M license. Additionally, you will need to purchase motorcycle liability coverage for bodily injuries and property damage.
Passenger Rules For Maryland Motorcyclists
You may only transport passengers on a motorcycle if its design allows for their safe travel. If the bike is not made for two riders, it won’t be able to manage the weight and could result in serious accidents. Passengers must also not interfere in any way with the driver’s ability to operate the bike or see the road.
Keep Both Hands On The Handlebars
Operators must keep their hands on the handlebars at all times. They are not allowed to carry packages with one arm. If you need to transport an item, you must do so by attaching it to the motorcycle.
What Penalties Could I Face If I Don’t Wear A Helmet?
In Maryland, you can face a fine of $500 if you don’t wear a helmet while on a motorcycle. Police officers in Maryland can give you a ticket for not wearing a helmet—whether or not you’ve been in an accident. You don’t have to crash to get fined; just being stopped while riding without a helmet is enough.
Contact Our Charles County Motorcycle Accident Lawyers For A Free Consultation
Have you been in a motorcycle accident in Charles County, MD? At Alpert Schreyer, our team of attorneys can assist you through every step of the claims process. We know what’s at stake and will work diligently to fight for the compensation you deserve for what you’ve suffered. As experienced litigators, we are also able to take the case to court if we believe you’re being mistreated.
Reach out to us to schedule a complimentary consultation with a Charles County motorcycle accident attorney.