There are no comprehensive Merrillville bicycle helmet laws. While the state and city do not require cyclists to wear helmets, it can be a good idea to do so. Wearing a helmet while riding your bike reduces your risk of a serious injury in the event of an accident, especially if you are struck by a car. Our dedicated bicycle accident attorneys are ready to help you seek justice following a bike crash that was not your fault.
Helmets Are Not Mandatory
In Merrillville, there are no local or state laws requiring cyclists of any age to wear helmets. However, while helmets are not mandatory, they are strongly recommended for every rider. A properly fitting helmet can significantly reduce the risk of serious head or brain injuries during a crash. Even at low speeds, without protection, a fall or collision with a vehicle can cause life-threatening damage.
Parents are encouraged to ensure children wear helmets every time they ride. Choosing to wear a helmet is a simple but powerful step to improve your safety and protect against devastating long-term injuries.
Why Helmets Are Recommended
Bicycle helmets are not required by law in Merrillville, but they are recommended because they provide critical protection against head injuries in accidents. When a rider falls or is struck by a vehicle, the head is often the first point of impact. A good quality helmet absorbs much of the force, reducing the likelihood of concussions, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injuries.
Wearing a helmet can dramatically reduce the risk of serious head trauma and potentially reduce the risk of traffic fatalities. A helmet cannot prevent all injuries, but it can make the difference between an accident causing minor or life-changing harm.
Can Lack of a Helmet Impact My Recovery After an Accident?
In some jurisdictions, failure to wear a helmet or other safety gear can impact your ability to seek compensation after a collision. This is due to a legal standard called comparative negligence. Indiana uses modified comparative negligence, under which not wearing a helmet will not result in a reduction in your potential recovery.
Under modified comparative negligence, the courts have the power to reduce your recovery in a personal injury case by your degree of fault. If you are 51 percent or more at fault, you could have your claim barred entirely. In bicycle crash cases, state law prevents the courts from assigning you any degree of fault for your injuries due to failure to wear a helmet, as their use is not legally mandated in Merrillville.
Other Bicycle Safety Requirements
Helmets might not be required in Merrillville under state law, but there are some regulations all cyclists should be aware of. First, cyclists have the same right to use most roads as motorists do. You are entitled to ride on city streets, but you must use bicycle lanes when they are available. Cyclists are allowed to ride with up to two bikes traveling side by side, except on roads or pathways that are exclusively used for bicycles.
Additionally, there are some equipment requirements that are not optional. Every bicycle should have a brake that allows the rider to skid to a stop on dry, level pavement. When riding at night, your bike should be equipped with a white light on the front and a red light or reflector on the rear. These lights and reflectors should be visible from at least 500 feet away.
Call a Merrillville Attorney To Learn More About Bicycle Helmet Laws
Understanding how Merrillville bicycle helmet laws apply to your case could make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim. Our legal team at the Law Offices of David W. Holub is ready to review your situation, explain your rights, and guide you through the next steps toward recovery. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get the clarity you need to move forward confidently.