As warmer temperatures approach and kids start their summer vacations, Portland communities will take to the great outdoor activities Oregon offers. With outdoor play, comes an increased risk for personal injuries for both the young and the not-so-young.

In April, the Oregon Legislature held a public hearing to listen to the pros and cons of Senate Bill 741 and Senate Bill 742. Both Bills, if passed, would change the existing laws concerning the mandatory helmet laws for bicyclists, skateboarders, roller blade and roller skaters, and scooter riders. The current law requires children under the age of 16 to wear proper headgear while riding or skating, and the new law would change that age from 16 to 18 years of age.

Opposing sides voiced their opinions that the new Bills would only serve to discourage people from riding bikes and would not actually protect children. The public opposition asked that money be spent on educating bicycle riders on proper bike safety and on educating motorists about how to safely share the road with cyclists.

Personal Injury from Bicycle and Motorist Accidents in Portland

With the popularity of biking in Portland and throughout Oregon, it is not uncommon to hear about catastrophic injuries occurring from a crash involving a motorist and a bicycle. Bicyclists have little to offer in protecting themselves against the size and force of a moving vehicle. Safety measures must be taken on both the part of the cyclist and the driver to avoid collisions. However, in spite of proper safety protocol, accidents happen.

If you or a loved one has suffered personal injuries from a bicycle accident, contact Portland’s Savage Law Firm today. We always offer a free consultation. Our main goal is to ensure that you receive the necessary compensation to recover from your injuries. All personal injury cases are handled on a contingency basis.