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Why is the NTSB Begging California Lawmakers to Change Helmet Laws?

The fight over whether or not bicyclists should be required by law to wear helmets when riding is an argument as old as helmets themselves. Many people point to the fact that a cyclist is much more likely to survive a serious bike accident if they are wearing a helmet as evidence that they should be required. Others believe that it is a personal decision.

Keep reading to learn why the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) believes so strongly that all cyclists should be required to wear helmets and why they are calling on California legislators to pass new laws that would make it mandatory for anyone to wear a helmet when they are riding. Remember that if you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury while on a bike, you can contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation.

A Look at the Study and Its Findings

The NTSB point to a bike safety study, the first of its kind since 1972, that they say provides plenty of evidence that they should make major changes. In the study, the NTSB discovered that one in four of all fatal bike accidents occurs on roads between intersections. Researchers found that the most frequent type of fatal bike accident is one in which a vehicle overtakes a bike rider and hits them.

The NTSB’s Arguments

Based on the information described above, the NTSB says that separate bike lanes would make a big difference, as they would put distance between a person on a bike and other motor vehicles that are traveling at much higher speeds. They also point out that 65% of bike collisions happen at intersections, and to reduce these issues, lawmakers should improve signs, medians, signals, and pavement markers to ensure that everyone on the road knows where cyclists have the right of way.

The NTSB is Also Pushing for Changes to Vehicles

In addition to pushing for laws requiring helmets, the NTSB also wants to see safety features added to vehicles. For example, they want improvements to the collision avoidance systems and other similar vehicle technologies that many new cars have. While those safety features are designed to prevent car accidents, they are not generally calibrated to “see” bike riders.

Have You Suffered an Injury While Riding a Bike in California?

If you have suffered an injury while riding a bike, or if you have been involved in an accident with a reckless biker, then you can contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 to request a free legal consultation. We can carefully consider your needs and determine the best way to proceed.