How Do South Carolina’s Motorcycle Safety Laws Stack Up?
Last summer, everyone was stuck at home as the Southern states experienced their first surge of COVID-19 cases. This summer, with travel restrictions relaxed and businesses allowed to operate at or near full capacity, travelers are making up for lost time and trying to pack two years of summer fun into one summer. South Carolina is full of delightful vacation spots, whether or not you are crossing state lines to reach them. We at The Stanley Law Group wish everyone a safe and fun summer vacation in South Carolina. If you get injured while on vacation in South Carolina, you should hire a personal injury lawyer from here instead of in your home state. Most of the laws that affect your daily life are state laws, and that includes traffic laws and the rules governing personal injury lawsuits. If you got injured in a motorcycle accident while visiting South Carolina, contact a Columbia motorcycle accident lawyer.
Motorcycle Helmets: Sometimes Required
Many states require motorcycle helmets for all motorcycle riders, regardless of age and whether they are driving the motorcycle or riding as a passenger. South Carolina law requires motorcycle helmets for riders under the age of 21; if you are at least 21, the helmets are optional. Even though you will not get a ticket for riding a motorcycle without a helmet (assuming that you are at least 21), you should wear one, not only for your physical safety but also for legal reasons. South Carolina is a comparative negligence state; this means that you can file a personal injury lawsuit for an accident that was partially your fault. If you win your case, the court will reduce your damages award according to your percentage of fault. Not wearing a helmet could increase your share of fault for the accident, thereby reducing the amount of money you can get, not to mention that it increases your risk of severe injury.
Eye Protection: Usually Required
Most motorcycle riders in South Carolina must wear eye protection, such as goggles, motorcycle glasses, or a visor attached to the helmet. You are exempt from the requirement to wear eye protection if your motorcycle has a windscreen that rises at least 15 inches above the top of the handlebars. From a legal perspective as well as a safety one, though, you should wear eye protection. Goggles and visor-equipped helmets make it easier to see the road, helping you to avoid a crash. They also reduce the risk of eye injuries caused by road debris.
Let Us Help You Today
If you get injured during a brief visit to South Carolina, you should hire a lawyer who works in the same county where the accident happened. Your Columbia motorcycle accident lawyer can help you recover damages for your financial losses, including medical bills and lost income resulting from your accident-related injuries. Contact The Stanley Law Group for help with your case.
Source:
motorcyclelegalfoundation.com/state-by-state-guide-to-motorcycle-laws/
