Riding a motorcycle or bike in Encino, CA, says as much about your personality and individual tastes as it does about the locale itself. From the make and model of your ride to your clothing and accessories, state law permits you freedom in deciding what and how you ride. Contact JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers at 833-852-3600 for a free consultation to understand your rights and options.
Personal preferences and decisions, however, fall by the wayside when it comes to wearing a helmet. All cyclists must follow helmet laws in Encino, CA, whenever they ride. Failing to do so can lead to both legal and physical consequences. If you’ve been injured in an accident, contact our Encino motorcycle accident lawyers today.
How JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help After a Motorcycle Accident in Encino, CA
Regardless of whether you wear a helmet, you have a right to be safe and free from injuries caused by others’ negligence when you ride. A driver’s mistake behind the wheel can lead to a sudden crash that leaves you with catastrophic injuries. If you’ve been in an accident, JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers and our Encino motorcycle accident attorneys are ready to help.
Our Encino personal injury lawyers will help your case by:
- Explaining your options and strategy
- Gathering medical and accident records
- Speaking with insurers on your behalf
- Negotiating a fair settlement
- Providing regular case updates
We understand that being the victim of a bicycle or motorcycle accident in Encino, California, can be a painful and distressing experience. That’s why our attorneys make it a point to minimize the anxiety and discomfort you might feel regarding the claims process through exceptional advocacy and client care.
Contact our office today to schedule a free consultation.
Motorcyclists Must Wear Helmets in Encino
When riding a motorcycle in Encino, you must wear a helmet at all times. California’s motorcycle helmet law is considered a “universal” law, in that it does not consider your age, riding experience, or whether you are operating the motorcycle or merely a passenger; all riders and passengers must comply and wear a helmet.
Motorcycle Helmets Must Meet DOT Standards
Motorcyclists cannot wear any helmet they choose; instead, full compliance with the law requires that helmets must meet safety standards set by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). You can tell if your motorcycle helmet meets these requirements by looking for a sticker on the helmet stating that it is DOT-compliant.
Penalties for Violating California Motorcycle Helmet Laws
Riders who do not wear an approved motorcycle helmet can be fined up to $250 per violation. The individual who should be wearing a helmet receives the ticket and fine, not necessarily the motorcycle’s owner. If a rider is under the age of 18, the person responsible for the child’s safety can be fined and face other charges.
Bicycle-Specific Helmet Laws
California’s bike helmet laws differ from its motorcycle helmet laws. Bicycle riders under 18 must wear a helmet anytime they ride in public; that includes on public roads, trails, and pathways. A child’s parents can be fined up to $25 if the child is caught riding without a helmet.
Helmets are not required, however, for those riding on private property or for cyclists over the age of 18.
Other Motorized Vehicles and Helmets
Beyond motorcycles and bicycles, DOT-compliant helmets are required for other motorized vehicles, such as mopeds, motor-driven cycles, and motorized bicycles. Additionally, users of electric boards, or “hoverboards,” along with motorized scooters and electric bikes, must wear bicycle helmets as well.
Contact Our Encino Motorcycle Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation
You should wear a helmet no matter your age or what kind of bike you’re riding, but not wearing one doesn’t mean you can’t get any money after a crash.
At JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers, our skilled Encino motorcycle accident attorneys are here to help. We offer prospective clients a free consultation where they can get answers to their questions and learn just how our lawyers can help them. You may be surprised to discover the legal rights you have. Contact us today.
