Motorcycle riding can be an enjoyable and cost-effective mode of transportation.  But being one of the smallest and least-protected vehicles on the road, riders have a greater chance of serious injury or death in a West Virginia motorcycle accident than from most other modes of travel.  In 2008, West Virginia roads saw 52 motorcycle fatalities.  The 2009 reduction to 25 fatalities may have resulted from the West Virginia Governors Highway Safety Program.

Motorcyclists need to be aware of all West  Virginia motorcycle laws to help ensure their best protection on the road.  But when you or a loved one cannot avoid an accident, you need to contact a West Virginia motorcycle accident lawyer from Michael Martin & Associates.  Our lawyers have the specialized experience you need to protect your rights.

The requirements of West Virginia State motorcycle laws

The state laws focus on ensuring riders have the best possible visibility to the roads and that other drivers can see them.  But the chances of head-on, rear-end, and other types of collisions also require the use of appropriate safety equipment required by law.  State requirements include the following for motorcyclists on the road:

• Use of a reflective helmet and eye protection
• Daytime use of headlights
• Passenger seats and footrests if carrying a passenger
• Periodic safety inspections
• Left and right mirrors
• Turn signals
• A minimum of 20/40/10 liability insurance
• Handlebars a maximum of 15 inches above the seat

How comparative negligence can affect compensation for injuries

The law imposes extra requirements on motorcyclists to protect their safety, but after an accident, the law can potentially view failure to follow the rules as contributing to injury―even when another driver has full fault for an accident.  West Virginia follows a modified comparative fault rule, which states that individuals who are 50 percent or more at fault may not recover compensation after an accident.  While this law typically refers to fault for the accident, sustaining significant injury as a result of avoiding legally-required safety measures may also qualify.  When you bring your case to motorcycle accident attorneys in West Virginia, you receive the advice and legal support you need to help ensure the protection of your rights to compensation.