What if the bicycle rider was not wearing a helmet during the accident?

In Washington, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 16 to ride a bicycle without wearing a helmet. If a bicycle rider was not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident, liability may be affected. If the rider is found to be negligent for not wearing a helmet, the court may decide to reduce or eliminate their legal damages as a result. The reduction or elimination of legal damages is known as contributory negligence, and it is a form of comparative negligence. This means that if the rider is found to be partially responsible for their injuries due to their failure to wear a helmet, then their recovery from the accident may be lessened. In addition, if the rider is found to be negligent for not wearing a helmet, their insurance company may also be liable for some or all of the damages resulting from the accident. This means that if the insurance company finds that the rider’s negligence contributed to their injuries, they may not be held responsible for the full amount of damages. Whether or not a bicycle rider was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident can have a significant effect on their claim to damages. It is important to note that while not wearing a helmet may result in a reduction of damages, it does not necessarily mean that the rider cannot receive any damages. It is important to consult an attorney if you are involved in a bicycle accident, as they can provide advice and options on how to best proceed.

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