New Missouri Motorcycle Helmet Law
Motorcycle riders in Missouri now have a little more freedom. The Missouri Senate, in Jefferson City, recently voted to allow motorcycle riders over the age of 21 to ride without a helmet in some circumstances. The one caveat is that Missouri motorcyclists can’t be traveling on one of Missouri’s interstate highways.
Some Missouri residents view this as a huge victory, while others believe the interstate restriction is ridiculous. I am an avid motorcycle rider and enthusiast and I understand why some riders prefer no helmet. It certainly increases the feeling of freedom, but also increases the chance of injury.
Many Missouri residents argue that once someone turns a certain age, they should be able to make this decision by themselves, without government involvement. Motorcycle helmets have been mandatory in Missouri for many years.
People who support helmet laws often defend their belief by arguing Missouri has an obligation to keep people safe when they are involved in dangerous activities. Supporters of helmet laws also point to the many studies that have been done in regard to Missouri motorcycle accidents, helmets, and injuries.
About half the states require motorcyclists to wear helmets. Some states don’t require helmets, while others require helmets for younger riders.
In 2007, The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported more than 5,000 motorcycle riders were killed in motorcycle accidents. In fact, this was the highest number of deaths since the NHTSA began keeping track.
NHTSA also conducted a study and found that in 2007, motorcycle helmets saved 1,784 lives across the United States.
Motorcycle accidents cause many deaths in the St. Louis area each year and many more people’s lives are changed forever from devastating injuries. Additionally, St. Louis motorcycle accidents often result in enormous medical bills and significant lost wages.
If you or someone you care for has been injured in a Missouri or Illinois motorcycle accident, contact the motorcycle accident lawyers at Page Law. Our St. Louis personal injury attorneys will help get you the compensation you deserve for you injuries. Our St. Louis motorcycle accident attorneys have many years of experience helping accident victims. To schedule a free consultation, call us at 314-322-8515.
