Motorcycle helmets generally do expire. However, there’s no legal “expiration date” stamped on helmets under Missouri law or federal rules. This is more about safety for the person wearing it and manufacturer recommendations.
Most major helmet manufacturers recommend replacing your helmet every five years, even if it appears to be in good condition. Materials inside the helmet, like foams and adhesives, can break down from sweat, UV rays, and regular wear. Older helmets may offer much less protection during a crash, even a minor one.
If you notice any cracks in the shell, worn or loose interior padding, or damage to the chin strap, you should stop using your helmet right away, regardless of its age. Even if you’ve only had it for a year or two, you should always prioritize your safety over the cost of replacing a helmet earlier than you expected.
Contact a motorcycle accident attorney in St. Louis to pursue financial compensation today.
How an Expired or Damaged Helmet Affects Injury Claims
The condition of your motorcycle helmet may become important if you’re injured in an accident. The other person involved and their insurance company may look at whether your helmet was expired, damaged, or up to standard when deciding how to handle your claim.
Insurance Company Arguments About Helmet Condition
Insurance companies may try to avoid full responsibility if you were wearing an old or visibly damaged helmet. They may argue that outdated or poorly maintained safety gear did not protect you as well as a new, intact helmet would have. If they think the helmet contributed to your head injuries, they could use this to lower your settlement.
Comparative Fault Considerations
Missouri uses pure comparative fault in motor vehicle accident cases. This means that anything the injured party did to contribute to the accident can come into play and reduce the compensation they can recover. For example, if your injuries were made worse because you had an expired helmet, your compensation could be reduced as a result.
How a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help
If you’re injured in a motorcycle accident, it’s difficult to know what to do next if you’re dealing with serious injuries and lost wages. A lawyer can help you so you don’t have to shoulder this weight all on your own. Here’s how:
Investigating Helmet Failure
Your lawyer will carefully review the condition and history of your helmet. This means checking for any signs that the helmet was expired, damaged, or defective. If a manufacturing or design flaw is suspected, they can bring in experts to build a case for product liability.
Fighting Comparative Fault Claims
Insurance companies often try to blame riders for their own injuries, especially if a helmet is old or has visible wear. A skilled lawyer defends you against arguments that you contributed to your injuries, making sure your role is not exaggerated by the other side.
Maximizing Compensation for Head and Brain Injuries
Head and brain injuries often have long-term consequences, sometimes ones that last a lifetime. It’s critical to make sure you get appropriate compensation to account for these future losses. A lawyer can collect medical records and consult with specialists to determine your actual long-term costs.
Handling Insurance Disputes and Lawsuits
A St. Louis personal injury lawyer manages negotiations with insurance adjusters and has the experience needed to help you get what your case is actually worth. If they try to delay or deny your claim, your lawyer can help you fight back.
If you or a loved one were hurt in a motorcycle accident, don’t assume you can’t get compensation if your helmet was expired. Let our team help.
Reach out today to schedule a free case consultation.