South Carolina Motorcycle Helmet Law: What You Need to Know

While drivers have a suite of safety features at their disposal, helmets remain the best protection for motorcycle riders.

Sharing the streets with cars and trucks presents a major risk, putting bikers at a disadvantage each time they hit the road.

South Carolina does not have a universal helmet law, meaning that, unlike other states, helmet use is not enforced. But it is important to keep in mind that helmet laws do apply to motorcycle riders under 21 years old. These riders are required to wear a helmet with a chin strap that covers all sides of their heads.

If you have been injured in a wreck, our motorcycle accident attorneys can help. We’ll handle your personal injury case from start to finish, fighting to recover the damages you deserve. You may be eligible for compensation for medical bills, bike repairs, pain and suffering, punitive damages and more.

Key Facts About Motorcycle Helmets

Check out these sobering statistics:

Motorcycle crashes in South Carolina increased 33% from 2020 to 2021, making them far too common. Note that many motorcycle accidents are fatal.

Correct helmet use when riding a motorcycle can reduce the risk of fatal injuries by 42% and the risk of head injuries by 69%.

Head and brain injuries are the leading cause of death in motorcycle accidents.

Wearing a helmet can decrease the cost of injury-related healthcare after a motorcycle accident.

A motorcycle helmet can decrease the amount of time spent in the hospital if you have been injured.

Helmets also protect motorcycle riders from inclement weather, wind, and other elements.

What Other Motorcycle Gear Can Help Keep You Safe?

White a helmet can prevent serious head or brain injury, it leaves the rest of your body unprotected. That is why our personal injury lawyers recommend the following protective gear:

Gloves

Jackets

Long pants, such as riding jeans

Boots

Tinted visors

Protective eyewear, such as goggles

Face shield

Earplugs

Reflective or light colored clothing at night

Because proper lighting maximizes visibility, front and rear lights (or rear reflectors) that are visible at least 500 feet behind are required.

Can Wearing A Helmet Help Your Motorcycle Accident Case?

Although you are not required by law to wear a helmet, it will certainly help to strengthen your personal injury case if you are involved in a crash. Taking all the precautions to avoid injury makes it much harder for the insurance adjuster to shift the blame away from the at-fault driver. It also makes it more difficult for them to argue that your injury was not the direct result of the motor vehicle collision. Be sure to obtain a copy of the accident report as well as any medical records and documentation of treatment. Following the doctor’s orders will also help strengthen your case.

The Mike Hostilo Law Firm Fights For Motorcycle Accident Victims

Hurt in a motorcycle accident? Trust our personal injury attorneys to advocate on your behalf. We’ll start with creating an attorney-client relationship, then communicate with the insurance company to secure the compensation you deserve for your personal injury claim.

Our experienced team is equipped to handle a wide range of motor vehicle accidents, including car accidents and trucking accidents. So if you or a loved one were injured in a crash, we are here to help.

Our South Carolina motorcycle accident lawyers are proud to serve drivers throughout the state, with offices conveniently located in Aiken, Beaufort, and North Charleston. If you’ve been injured, we’ll even come to you!

Call today to schedule a free consultation with a motorcycle accident attorney.

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