Minnesota Helmet Laws and Your Injury Claim
Minnesota does not require all motorcycle riders to wear a helmet. Under state law, helmets are mandatory only for riders under the age of 18. Adult riders are legally permitted to ride without one. That said, the choice to wear or skip a helmet can have real consequences if you are hurt in a crash.
How Helmet Use Affects Your Injury Claim
Minnesota follows a modified comparative fault system. This means that if you are found partially responsible for your own injuries, your compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault. In some cases, it can be eliminated entirely.
If you were not wearing a helmet and suffered a head or neck injury, the at-fault driver’s insurance company will likely argue that your injuries would have been less severe had you been wearing one. Whether that argument holds up depends on the facts of your case and the type of injuries involved. This can play out in a few ways:
- If your injuries are unrelated to your head or neck, helmet use may be entirely irrelevant to your claim
- If you suffered a traumatic brain injury or facial trauma, the defense will likely raise the helmet issue early
- Medical testimony may be used to argue your injuries were worsened by not wearing a helmet
- The jury ultimately decides how much fault, if any, to assign to you for your choice
An Inver Grove Heights motorcycle accident lawyer can help you understand how this argument may apply to your specific situation.
Minnesota’s Comparative Fault Rule
Under Minnesota law, a plaintiff can still recover damages as long as they are not more than 50% at fault. Any recovery is then reduced in proportion to their own fault percentage.
So if a jury finds you 20% at fault for not wearing a helmet and awards $100,000 in damages, you would receive $80,000. The reduction is real, but it does not automatically eliminate your right to recover. Minnesota Statute 604.01 outlines how comparative fault applies in civil cases throughout the state.
Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Crash
Whether you were wearing a helmet or not, the actions you take immediately after a crash matter significantly to your claim.
- Seek medical attention right away, even if you feel okay
- Document the scene with photos if you are physically able
- Avoid giving recorded statements to the other driver’s insurer
- Keep thorough records of all medical treatment and expenses
- Contact an attorney before agreeing to any settlement
The insurance company on the other side is not working in your interest. They will look for any reason to reduce what they owe you, and helmet use is one of the first things they examine in motorcycle accident cases.
Getting the Right Help After a Motorcycle Accident
Bennerotte & Associates, P.A. has handled motorcycle accident claims throughout Minnesota and understands how insurers use helmet evidence to challenge otherwise valid claims. Not wearing a helmet does not mean you give up your right to fair compensation.
If you were hurt in a crash and have questions about your options, connecting with an experienced Inver Grove Heights motorcycle accident lawyer is a smart first step. Reach out today for an honest evaluation of your claim.