Arizona is one of the states with the most motorcycles, boasting more than 180,000 registered bikes. It’s no surprise, then, that Arizona also experiences a significant number of motorcycle crashes annually. In a recent year, there were 2,594 motorcycle accidents throughout the state, with 2,206 resulting in injuries and 160 resulting in fatalities.
One of the factors that can influence the severity of a motorcycle accident is whether the rider was wearing a helmet — especially in busy cities like Phoenix, AZ. Below, we offer some information on Arizona helmet laws and what to do if you’ve been in a collision.
If you need assistance, contact our Phoenix motorcycle accident lawyers at Curiel & Runion Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers or call (602) 595-5559 to schedule a free initial consultation
How Curiel & Runion Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help You After a Motorcycle Accident in Phoenix, AZ
Any time a motorcycle is involved in an accident, the injuries for the biker can be severe. This is because motorcycles don’t offer the kind of protection that other vehicles do. If you’ve been in a motorcycle collision, you should turn to our Phoenix personal injury lawyers to seek compensation for your losses.
At Curiel & Runion Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers, we help our clients recover by providing many services.
These include:
- Assessing your claim
- Advising you of your rights
- Investigating the accident
- Gathering evidence to corroborate your claim
- Negotiating with insurance companies
- Representing you in court if necessary
With more than 55 years of combined experience, our motorcycle accident lawyers in Phoenix, Arizona, can help you file for damages. You shouldn’t have to deal with medical expenses, property damage, and other losses without help. Contact our law firm to begin the claims process.
Understanding Motorcycle Helmet Laws in Phoenix, AZ
Arizona law only requires people under 18 to wear helmets when riding a motorcycle, including if they’re passengers. However, just because the law doesn’t require you to wear one, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t.
Helmets protect you from traumatic brain injuries, which can leave you with disabilities or could even kill you. They can also protect you from disfiguring injuries, paralysis, and other catastrophic injuries.
If you do decide to wear a helmet, you want to ensure that the one you buy meets Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 218. You should always try the helmet on before purchasing it to ensure a snug fit.
The helmet you buy should be at least one inch thick and weigh at least three pounds. It should have a sturdy chin strap with metal rivets. Avoid those with plastic rivets, as they can break during an accident. To increase both safety and comfort, choose a helmet that has an anti-fog visor or a face shield, proper ventilation, and a washable liner.
Even if you don’t choose to wear a helmet, Arizona law requires you to wear some form of eye protection if your bike doesn’t have a windshield. You can choose a face shield or goggles.
Steps To Take After a Motorcycle Crash in Phoenix
Knowing what to do right after a motorcycle accident occurs can help protect you from further injuries while also making it easier to file a claim. The process begins with taking stock of yourself.
This is an important step because moving too quickly after suffering serious injuries could be dangerous. If you notice that you’re in significant pain or that you’re bleeding, remain still. Make sure to call emergency services immediately.
Once they arrive, allow them to examine you, even if you think you’re not injured. You may not notice you’re in pain until the shock wears off, so having a professional check you makes it easier to get medical care as quickly as possible. It also allows you to begin leaving a record of the injuries.
Call the police. Make sure you know how to get a copy of the report because you will want it when filing a claim.
Exchange information with the other party if you’re well enough to do so. Keep the conversation civil, and don’t admit to any degree of fault.
Begin taking pictures of anything that can prove how the accident occurred. Record your injuries, the damage to your motorcycle and the other vehicle, and road conditions. If there were eyewitnesses, get their information, too.
Alert your insurer that you’ve been in an accident, but keep the conversation short until you speak with a motorcycle accident lawyer. They will be able to negotiate on your behalf.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Skilled Phoenix Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
After suffering losses in a motorcycle accident, you can claim damages. At Curiel & Runion Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers, our Arizona personal injury lawyers will guide you through the process.